Air Fryer Mushrooms And Onions: A Tasty, Healthy Treat

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, and it's no surprise that people are experimenting with cooking all sorts of foods in them. Mushrooms and onions are two ingredients that can be cooked in an air fryer, either together or separately. This method of cooking them is a hands-off approach that requires minimal preparation and stirring. The result is a slightly firmer texture than sautéed mushrooms and onions, with a buttery flavour and caramelisation.

The best types of mushrooms and onions to use

When it comes to the types of mushrooms and onions to use in your air fryer, there are a few options to consider. For mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are a great choice. They are small like white button mushrooms but have an earthy flavour similar to portobello mushrooms. If you can't get your hands on baby bellas, you can use sliced portobello mushrooms instead. Alternatively, you can use white button mushrooms or any other variety of mushroom you prefer. Just keep in mind that the size of the mushroom might affect the cooking time, with larger mushrooms taking a bit longer to cook.

As for onions, a large yellow onion is a good option. You'll want to cut it lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices. This will ensure the onions get soft but not mushy. If you prefer your onions on the softer side, you can cut them into smaller slices. You can also use red onions, which will add a slightly sweeter flavour to the dish.

In terms of preparation, it's important not to wash and cut the mushrooms too far in advance, as they can start to discolour. Simply give them a quick rinse and pat them dry before cutting them into thick slices or halves. You can also quarter them if they are large. As for the onions, slicing them to the right thickness is key to ensuring they cook properly in the air fryer.

Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavours of the mushrooms and onions. Basic seasonings like salt and black pepper are a great starting point, but you can also try dried thyme leaves, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of lemon zest and parsley. Just remember, a little spice goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

How to prepare the mushrooms and onions

Preparing mushrooms and onions for air frying is a simple and quick process. First, you'll want to clean your mushrooms. You can do this by gently rubbing dirt off of them with a paper towel, or by rinsing them in a colander and patting them dry. Just be sure not to soak the mushrooms in water, as they will absorb it, which will affect how well they cook in the air fryer. Next, you'll want to cut your mushrooms. You can slice or quarter them, depending on their size. If you are using large mushrooms, you may want to quarter them. If you are using smaller mushrooms, you can get away with slicing them in half. Regardless of the size of the mushrooms, it is recommended that you cut them into thick slices, as they will shrink in size during cooking.

Next, you'll want to prepare your onions. Slice the onions into 1/2-inch strips. If you like your onions on the softer side, you can cut them into smaller slices. The type of onion you use is up to your preference. Yellow onions are the most common type, with a strong flavour that is great for caramelizing. White onions have a milder flavour, and red onions will give you a sweeter flavour.

Once your mushrooms and onions are prepared, add them to a large bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other dry seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme leaves, or Italian seasoning. Just remember that a little spice goes a long way, so start with a pinch or two of seasoning and add more if needed after cooking. You can also add a touch of balsamic vinegar or another type of vinegar, soy sauce, or Worcestershire sauce if you like.

Finally, place the seasoned mushrooms and onions in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 15-17 minutes, stirring them at the midway point. The mushrooms should be browned and tender but not too soft, and the onions should be soft and translucent and starting to caramelize. If you want them more caramelized, you can air fry them for a few minutes longer, but be careful not to overcook, as they will dry out and burn.

Cooking time and temperature

When cooking onions and mushrooms in an air fryer, the cooking time and temperature will depend on the type of air fryer you have, the quantity of vegetables, and the consistency you are aiming for. For example, if you are using a smaller air fryer, you will need to cook the vegetables in batches so that they cook in a single layer. If your air fryer cooks faster than others, you may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time.

Most recipes recommend cooking onions and mushrooms at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 17 minutes. However, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer. For example, if you are using a larger model, your mushrooms will cook faster, so it is important to check on them frequently. On the other hand, if you are using a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the vegetables in batches to ensure even cooking.

It is also important to cut your vegetables to a similar size to ensure even cooking. For mushrooms, this means cutting them into halves or quarters, depending on their size. For onions, slicing them into half-inch slices will ensure they get soft but not mushy. If you prefer softer onions, you can cut them into smaller slices.

During the cooking process, it is recommended to stir or shake the air fryer basket once or twice to ensure even cooking. This will help to prevent burning and ensure that all sides of the vegetables are cooked evenly. Depending on your desired consistency, you can cook the vegetables for a shorter or longer period of time. For example, if you want your mushrooms to be crispy, you may need to cook them for a few extra minutes.

Overall, when cooking onions and mushrooms in an air fryer, it is important to pay attention to the size and model of your air fryer, the size of your vegetables, and your desired consistency. By adjusting the temperature and cooking time accordingly, you can ensure that your vegetables are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Seasoning and flavour combinations

When it comes to seasoning and flavour combinations for air-fried onions and mushrooms, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Basic Seasoning:

Keep it simple with salt and black pepper. This classic combination will enhance the natural flavours of the onions and mushrooms without overwhelming them. You can also add dried thyme leaves for an extra flavour boost. Just be mindful that a little thyme goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Spicy Kick:

If you like your food with a kick, add some spice to your air-fried onions and mushrooms. A dash of sriracha hot sauce or soy sauce will do the trick. Alternatively, you can use garlic powder, onion powder, or even red pepper flakes to add some heat. Just remember that a little spice goes a long way, so start with a pinch and adjust to your preference.

Herby Deliciousness:

For a more herbaceous flavour profile, mix in some rosemary leaves, thyme, and dried parsley. This combination will add a bright, fresh taste to your onions and mushrooms. You can also try other dried herbs like oregano or basil, depending on your preference.

Tangy Twist:

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, or Worcestershire sauce to your onions and mushrooms. These tangy ingredients will cut through the richness of the dish and add a depth of flavour. You can also try using red or white vinegar, soy sauce, or even a squeeze of lemon for a brighter note.

Cheesy Indulgence:

For a decadent touch, sprinkle some shaved Parmesan or pecorino cheese on top of your air-fried onions and mushrooms. This combination is perfect if you're using them as a pizza topping or serving them with grilled steak. Other cheese options like nutty Gruyère or creamy ricotta can also take your dish to the next level.

Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to start with a small amount and gradually add more to suit your taste. You can always add more seasoning, but it's challenging to salvage a dish that's been overwhelmed with flavours. Happy cooking!

What to serve with mushrooms and onions

Yes, you can cook onions and mushrooms in an air fryer. The air fryer method replaces standing over the stove sautéing mushrooms and onions and is pretty much hands-off except for tossing things around midway through the cooking time. The texture of the onions and mushrooms is slightly firmer than when sautéed.

Mushrooms and onions can be served as a side dish or topping for grilled steak, chicken, beef, pork, or fish. They can also be served as a topping for burgers and pizza. You can also add them to a quesadilla with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, spoon them over an omelet, or add them to a toasted cheese sandwich. They can also be drizzled over mashed or baked potatoes. For a light lunch or dinner, stuff them in a calzone or stromboli.

Frequently asked questions