Air-Fryer Caramelized Onions: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Caramelized onions are a delicious addition to any meal, but making them on a stovetop can be a tedious task. Luckily, you can easily make caramelized onions in an air fryer with minimal ingredients and effort. This guide will teach you how to make healthy, sweet, and crispy caramelized onions in an air fryer.

How to Make Caramelized Onions in an Air Fryer

Choosing the right onion

Onion Varieties

Yellow onions are the most commonly recommended type for caramelization due to their balanced sweet-savory flavor profile. They offer a versatile taste that complements various dishes. However, other onion varieties can also be used.

Sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, are excellent choices if you want a stronger sweetness in your caramelized onions. Just keep in mind that their flavor will become even sweeter when caramelized.

Red onions are typically better suited for quick-cooking techniques like grilling or broiling. While they can be caramelized, they tend to take on more color than yellow or sweet onions.

White onions can be used, but they may produce a one-note sweet flavor that lacks the savory depth of yellow caramelized onions.

You can also get creative and use multiple types of onions to add complexity to your dish, as suggested by Daniel Gritzer of Serious Eats.

Onion Texture

The way you cut your onion will impact the final texture of your caramelized onions. If you slice the onion lengthwise, along the root, you'll burst fewer cell walls, resulting in more intact slices with a subtle crunch.

On the other hand, slicing the onion crosswise or dicing it will burst more cell walls, giving you a softer and more spreadable texture.

Onion Moisture Content

The moisture content of onions can vary, and this will affect the cooking time and the final texture of your caramelized onions. Sweet onions, for example, have a higher moisture content and tend to shrink more during cooking, which also contributes to a longer cooking time.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the "right" onion for caramelization is the one that suits your taste preferences and the specific dish you're preparing. Don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties to find the one that works best for you.

Additionally, remember that the cooking time and temperature settings may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so adjust accordingly to achieve your desired level of caramelization.

Oil and seasoning

The type of oil and seasoning you use will depend on your taste preferences and dietary requirements. For instance, if you are vegan, you may want to skip the butter.

A small amount of oil is needed to help the onions caramelize and become tender. You can skip this step if you want a lighter version, but be aware that the onions might turn out a bit drier. Oils you can use include olive oil, avocado oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or any other neutral cooking oil. You can also use cooking spray.

For seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add extra spices such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or balsamic vinegar. You can also try a seasoning blend like Vegeta all-purpose seasoning or KFC spice blend.

Slicing the onion

First, you'll want to choose your onion. Yellow, white, red, or sweet onions will all work for this recipe. If you're looking for a sweeter result, opt for a sweet onion like Vidalia or Walla Walla.

Next, you'll need to peel the onion and cut off the top. You can then slice the onion into thin wedges or strips, aiming for a medium thickness. Try to make the slices as even as possible, as this will help ensure even cooking. The ideal thickness will depend on your preference and the desired level of caramelization. If you slice the onion too thin, it may burn, and if you slice it too thick, it may not caramelize properly. As a reference, slices between 1/4" and 1/2" thick tend to work well.

If you're making onion rings, you can slice the onion into 1/4" thick whole onion rings, leaving the rings whole and intact.

Once you've sliced the onion, place the slices into a large bowl or directly into the air fryer basket, depending on the type of air fryer you have.

And that's it! You're now ready to move on to the next step of tossing the onion slices with oil and seasonings.

Air fryer temperature

Preheating the Air Fryer:

Start by preheating your air fryer. This step is essential to ensure even cooking and to help you achieve the desired temperature for caramelization. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer between 350°F and 400°F for about 3 to 5 minutes.

Temperature Settings for Caramelization:

The ideal temperature range for caramelizing onions in an air fryer is between 350°F and 375°F. This temperature range allows the onions to cook slowly and evenly, promoting the caramelization process.

Temperature Adjustment for Different Levels of Caramelization:

Depending on your desired level of caramelization, you can adjust the temperature accordingly. For a lighter caramelization, cook the onions at 350°F. If you prefer a deeper color and flavor, increase the temperature to 370°F-375°F.

Temperature Variation among Air Fryer Models:

It's important to note that different air fryer models may vary in temperature settings and cooking speed. Always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific instructions and guidelines. Adjust the temperature and cooking time based on your air fryer's performance.

Temperature Check during Cooking:

Keep a close eye on the onions during the cooking process. Check them at regular intervals to assess their doneness and adjust the temperature as needed. This is especially important if your air fryer doesn't have a built-in temperature control or if you're using it for the first time for this purpose.

Temperature Impact on Cooking Time:

The temperature you choose will also influence the cooking time. A lower temperature setting may require a longer cooking time to achieve the desired level of caramelization. Similarly, a higher temperature may shorten the cooking time.

Temperature Maintenance for Even Cooking:

To ensure even cooking and consistent results, maintain the desired temperature throughout the cooking process. Avoid frequent temperature fluctuations, as they can impact the overall cooking time and the final texture of the onions.

Temperature Adjustment for Different Onion Varieties:

Consider the type of onion you are using. Sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, may require slightly lower temperatures and shorter cooking times compared to yellow or red onions. Adjust the temperature accordingly to achieve the desired level of caramelization for the specific onion variety.

In summary, achieving the perfect caramelized onions in an air fryer involves finding the right temperature setting, considering the variations among air fryer models, and adjusting the temperature based on your desired level of caramelization and the type of onion used. Remember to preheat your air fryer, maintain a consistent temperature, and monitor the onions regularly during the cooking process.

Storage and reheating

Storing your caramelized onions is a great way to save time and ensure you always have some on hand to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your air-fried caramelized onions:

Storage:

Once your onions are cooked to perfection, allow them to cool down. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Make sure to store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for about 3 to 5 days.

If you want to keep your caramelized onions for longer, freezing is a great option. Frozen caramelized onions can last for up to 6 months in a freezer-safe container. To freeze, you can use an ice cube tray or a muffin tin lined with plastic wrap. Simply fill the tray or tin with portions of the onions, cover with another layer of plastic wrap, and pop them into the freezer. Once frozen, remove the onion portions from the tray or tin and store them in a freezer bag.

Alternatively, you can freeze your onions directly in a freezer bag. Flatten the bag as you fill it to create a thin sheet of onions, which will make it easier to break off the desired amount when frozen. You can also use a chopstick or pencil to create portion lines in the bag before freezing.

Reheating:

When you're ready to use your frozen onions, there are a few simple ways to reheat them:

• Add them directly to a bubbling liquid, such as a soup or stew.
• Melt them in a non-stick pan over low heat until warmed through.
• Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture.

With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy the convenience and flavor of caramelized onions anytime!

Frequently asked questions