Introduction:
Air fryer crispy fried onions are a healthier and quicker alternative to deep-fried onions, giving you that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. Perfect as a topping for burgers, salads, casseroles, or just as a snack, these crispy onions have a light, golden-brown texture that’s irresistible.
The air fryer allows you to achieve that crispy finish with much less oil, making it a great choice for a healthier snack or garnish.
Ingredients:
1 large onion (yellow or white), thinly sliced
1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
1 egg (optional, for extra crispiness)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
1-2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
Prep the Onion:
Slice the onion into thin rings.
Soak the onion rings in buttermilk (or milk) for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
This will help the coating stick better and ensure the onions are tender inside.
Make the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir to combine.
Coat the Onions:
After soaking the onions in the buttermilk, remove them one at a time, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each ring in the flour mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Onions:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle the onions with olive oil. Place the coated onion rings in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
Cook:
Air fry the onions at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The onions should be golden brown and crispy. If you prefer extra crunch, add a couple of extra minutes.
Serve:
Once done, remove the crispy fried onions from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Description:
These air fryer crispy fried onions have the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. With a light coating of seasoned flour, they come out crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft and tender inside. They are ideal for topping various dishes, or you can simply enjoy them as a snack on their own. The air fryer method significantly reduces the oil content compared to traditional deep-frying, making this a guilt-free option to enjoy fried onions anytime.
Tips:
Slice Thinly: The thinner you slice the onions, the crispier they will be. Try to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Soaking is Key: Soaking the onions in buttermilk helps soften the onion rings, making them crisp up better during frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each onion ring space to crisp up evenly.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices or seasoning blends to the flour mixture to make the fried onions your own (e.g., cayenne pepper for heat or thyme for a herby touch).
Storage: These crispy onions are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to get them crispy again.
Variations:
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour (such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend) to make these crispy fried onions gluten-free.
Cheese: Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy twist.
Vegan Option: Skip the egg and use plant-based milk and a vegan substitute for the buttermilk to keep this recipe entirely plant-based.
Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mix for a spicy kick.
Correction:
If the onions aren’t crispy enough, try spraying them lightly with more cooking spray or adding an extra minute or two in the air fryer. Make sure they are spread out evenly in the basket to ensure even crisping.
Enjoy:
Serve these crispy fried onions as a topping for your favorite dishes or enjoy them as a tasty snack on their own. They’ll bring a satisfying crunch and savory flavor to whatever you pair them with!