Making Crispy Onion Rings In An Air Fryer

Yes, you can make onion rings in an air fryer! They're a healthier alternative to deep-fried onion rings and can be made in under 30 minutes with basic ingredients. The air fryer makes the process easier as you don't need to stand over a pot of hot oil or monitor the temperature. You can also experiment with different spices and breadings.

What type of onion is best for onion rings?

When it comes to choosing the best type of onion for onion rings, it really depends on your personal preference and availability. Here are some options to consider:

• Sweet onions: Sweet onions, such as Vidalia, Walla Walla, Maui, or Texas onions, are known for their mild and sweet flavour. They are a popular choice for onion rings because they result in a softer and less pungent taste.
• Yellow onions: Yellow onions offer a nice balance of sharp and sweet flavours. The longer they are cooked, the sweeter they become. Yellow onions are a versatile option and are often used in recipes like caramelized onion garlic jam.
• White onions: White onions have a sharper and more pungent flavour compared to other varieties. They are a good choice if you prefer a more distinct onion taste in your onion rings.
• Red onions: Red onions are similar in flavour to yellow onions but are slightly milder. They will give your onion rings a beautiful colour and a subtle onion taste.

When selecting onions for your onion rings, it is also important to consider the size and thickness of the onions. Look for onions that are large enough to cut into thick slices, ideally about 1/2-inch thick. This will ensure that your onion rings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Additionally, you can enhance the flavour of your onion rings by adding seasonings to the batter or breading. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, or a combination of these spices.

How long do onion rings take to cook in an air fryer?

Air fryer onion rings are a tasty treat and healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. The cooking time depends on the temperature you set your air fryer to and the number of onion rings you cook at once.

If you are cooking a batch of frozen onion rings, layer them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, spray them with cooking spray, and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, open the basket and flip the onion rings for even cooking.

For a batch of homemade onion rings, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Dip the onion rings in flour, then in egg, and finally in panko crumbs. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and fry for 10-15 minutes.

If you want crispier onion rings, you can double-dip them in the flour and egg mixture before coating them with the breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker coating.

For an even crispier texture, you can also increase the temperature of your air fryer to 370°F and cook for 8 to 11 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Regardless of the temperature, remember to arrange the onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space around each ring for the air to circulate. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the onion rings in batches.

Enjoy your air fryer onion rings as a snack or appetizer, or serve them as a side dish with burgers or sandwiches.

How do you make onion rings crispy?

To make crispy onion rings in an air fryer, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. First, peel and slice your onions into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. You can use a variety of onions, but sweet onions, such as Vidalias, Walla Wallas, or Maui onions are preferred for their mild and sweet flavour. Separate the onion slices into rings.

Next, you'll need to prepare the dredging and dipping stations. In one bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and/or paprika. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, and if you like, add some milk or buttermilk to make an egg wash. You can also add some cayenne pepper or black pepper to the egg mixture for a spicy kick. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. You can also add some onion powder, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for extra flavour.

Now it's time to dredge and dip the onion rings. Start by coating the onion rings in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them in the egg mixture, followed by the flour mixture again. Finally, dip them back into the egg mixture and coat them well with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the onion rings.

Before frying, preheat your air fryer to 350-390°F. Place the breaded onion rings into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space around each ring to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the onion rings in batches. Lightly spray the onion rings with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them get crispy and golden brown.

Air fry the onion rings for 8-15 minutes at 350°F, or 10 minutes at 390°F, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn. Once they're golden brown and crispy, they're ready to be served!

For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the onion rings by repeating the dredging and dipping process. You can also add some cornstarch to the flour mixture to help the breading stick better. If you have time, marinating the onion rings in buttermilk for a few hours before dredging and frying will also enhance their flavour and texture.

How do you reheat onion rings?

If you have leftover onion rings, you can reheat them in the air fryer or in the oven. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:

Reheating in an Air Fryer

• Place the onion rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space around each ring.
• Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 4-10 minutes, or until crispy and warmed through.
• Flip the onion rings halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.

Reheating in an Oven

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Place the onion rings on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
• Reheat for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and warmed through.
• Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.

It is best to reheat onion rings in small batches to ensure even heating and to prevent overcrowding. If you are reheating a large quantity, you may need to do so in batches.

Additionally, onion rings are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What can you serve with onion rings?

There are many dishes that can be served with onion rings. Here are some ideas:

As a Side

Onion rings are often served as a side dish to complement a main course. They can be a great substitute for fries and pair well with burgers, sandwiches, and chicken. They can also be a tasty topping for burgers. For a healthier option, serve them with a salad, such as a Caesar salad or a creamy corn salad.

As a Snack

Onion rings are a popular snack, especially during game days or movie nights. They can be served with various dips, such as mayo, ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo. For a healthier option, serve them with hummus.

As Part of a Meal

Onion rings can be part of a larger meal, such as with Philly cheesesteak, stuffed mushrooms, chicken tenders, or chicken sandwiches. They can also be served with a variety of other fried foods, such as chicken wings, chicken fingers, or French fries.

As an Appetizer

Onion rings can be a tasty appetizer or starter, especially when served with a dip. Try serving them with a yogurt herb dip, a spicy bloom sauce, or a toasted marshmallow dip.

Other Ideas

Onion rings can be served with a variety of other dishes, depending on your preferences. Some unique ideas include serving them with mashed potatoes, crab, steak, or even adding them to a burger as a topping.

So, there you have it! Plenty of ideas to elevate your onion rings and create a delicious meal or snack.

Frequently asked questions