Jowar bajra popcorn mix is a fun, guilt-free twist to your regular popcorn. Air-fried to perfection, each millet puff bursts with a spicy, earthy crunch. It’s fibre-rich, oil light, and makes an excellent travel or tea-time snack that stays crisp for days when stored right.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
½ cupJowar kernels
½ cupBajra kernels
2 tbspNeutral oil
½ tspRed chilli powder
¼ tspTurmeric powder
¼ tspCumin powder
½ tspChaat masala
¼ tspBlack salt
to tasteSalt
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Soak and Dry the Millets
Rinse both jowar and bajra kernels thoroughly. Soak them in enough water for 8 hours or overnight. Drain completely and spread on a clean kitchen towel to air dry. The kernels must be fully dry before air-frying; any dampness will prevent proper popping.
Description - Step 2
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 200°C (392°F) and let it preheat. This step ensures the kernels begin popping immediately and develop a consistent crunch without turning hard or chewy.
Description - Step 3
Pop the Jowar
Place the dried jowar kernels in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. The kernels will puff up slightly and turn crisp. Remove and set aside to cool while you prepare the bajra.
Description - Step 4
Pop the Bajra
Add the bajra kernels to the air fryer and cook at 200°C for 10 minutes. Bajra takes a little longer than jowar to pop. Keep shaking the basket halfway through and watch closely near the end to avoid over-browning.
Description - Step 5
Prepare Spiced Oil
In a small bowl, warm oil just enough to feel slightly hot to the touch. Add red chilli powder, turmeric, cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, and regular salt. Stir well and let it cool for a minute before mixing; this helps the spices release their aroma without burning.
Description - Step 6
Mix and Coat
Combine both popped millets in a large bowl. Drizzle the spice-oil mixture over them and toss gently using a spatula or by shaking the bowl. Make sure every piece is evenly coated; this is what gives the mix its bold flavour.
Description - Step 7
Cool and Store
Spread the spiced mix on a tray to cool completely. Once cool, transfer to an airtight jar or zip pouch. This keeps it crunchy for up to a week; perfect for snacking on the go or packing in lunchboxes.