Air Fryer Keto Onion Rings: A Tasty, Crispy Treat

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried onion rings, then air-fried keto onion rings are a great option. They are made using a low-carb breading and an air fryer instead of a high-carb batter and deep frying. This results in onion rings that are just as crispy as the real thing but are healthier and suitable for a keto diet.

Choosing the right onion

The best type of onion for this recipe is a Vidalia onion or a sweet onion. These onions have a slightly sweeter taste than some other varieties and are not as strong in flavor. They are also milder and a bit less crunchy. This makes them perfect for keto onion rings, as they won't be too overpowering and will complement the other flavors in the dish.

You can also use a yellow onion, which is a good all-around cooking onion. It has a higher sugar content, which is great for caramelizing, and it is versatile. This is a good option if you can't get your hands on sweet onions.

White onions are milder in flavor and don't last as long, so they are best used fresh as a sandwich or burger topping. Red onions are the mildest and add a pop of color to fresh dishes like salads, but they can change the color of cooked dishes.

Keto-friendly breading

The key to making keto-friendly onion rings is to use a low-carb breading. The breading is what gives the onion rings their crispy texture and golden colour. Here are some tips and ingredients you can use to make keto-friendly breading:

Ingredients:

• Almond Flour: Use finely ground almond flour instead of regular flour. It keeps the breading light and adheres better to the onions.
• Coconut Flour: Coconut flour can be used in combination with almond flour for frying. It adds a slight sweetness that goes well with the onion.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese adds flavour and helps make the batter more crispy.
• Keto Bread Crumbs: Ground pork rinds can be used as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs. They mimic the texture of panko breadcrumbs.
• Eggs: Eggs help the bread crumbs stick to the onions.
• Spices: Add spices like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and parsley to taste.

Instructions:

• Prep: Add the dry ingredients (almond flour, salt, pepper, and any other spices) to one bowl. In a second bowl, add the keto bread crumbs. Whisk the eggs in a third bowl.
• Dredge: Dip the onion rings first in the egg mixture, then in the almond flour mixture, then back in the egg mixture, and finally in the keto breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess coating.
• Fry: If using an air fryer, preheat it to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the onion rings in a single layer, making sure they don't touch each other. Spray the onion rings with cooking spray and air fry for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Dipping sauces

There are many keto-friendly dipping sauces that you can serve with your air-fried keto onion rings. Here are some ideas:

Keto Ranch Dressing

As mentioned by Wendy Polisi, Keto Ranch Dressing is a great choice for a dipping sauce. It is worth making it a weekly habit!

Keto Blue Cheese Dressing

If you are craving bold flavours, Keto Blue Cheese Dressing is the way to go.

Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce

This sauce, recommended by Maya Krampf, is a great complement to the keto onion rings. To make it, you will need mayonnaise, horseradish cream, no-sugar-added ketchup, and Cajun seasoning.

Outback-Style Dipping Sauce

This recipe, shared by Jill Selkowitz, is very simple and goes great with onion rings, fries, hamburgers, and even chicken sandwiches. To make it, you will need mayonnaise, horseradish root, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.

Low-Carb Ranch Dressing

Leigh Oskwarek suggests serving the onion rings with low-carb ranch dressing.

Low-Carb Ketchup

You can also dip your onion rings in some low-carb ketchup, as recommended by Oskwarek.

Cooking methods

There are several ways to cook keto onion rings, including deep frying, baking in the oven, or cooking in an air fryer. Here is a detailed description of each method:

Deep Frying:

• This is the traditional method for cooking onion rings, and it results in a crispy and golden texture.
• Heat oil in a deep pot or saucepan to 350°F/180°C.
• Dip the onion rings in the egg mixture, followed by the almond flour mixture, then back in the egg, and finally in the keto bread crumbs.
• Shake off any excess coating and set aside.
• Carefully place the coated onion rings into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Transfer the fried onion rings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
• Note: This method can be messy and may require a lot of oil.

Baking in the Oven:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F/200°C.
• Prepare the onion rings by dipping them in the egg mixture, followed by the almond flour mixture, and then repeating the process for a double coating.
• Place the coated onion rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are in a single layer with minimal touching.
• Spray the onion rings with cooking spray or oil.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then flip the onion rings and respray with oil.
• Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Air Frying:

• This method produces crispy onion rings with less oil and mess than deep frying.
• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F/190-200°C.
• Set up three shallow bowls: one with coconut flour and salt, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of pork rind "breadcrumbs," almond flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
• Dredge each onion ring in the coconut flour, dip it in the egg, shake off the excess, and then press it into the pork rind mixture, scooping extra mixture on top to fully coat.
• Place the coated onion rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap too much to ensure proper air circulation.
• Spray the onion rings with cooking spray or oil.
• Air fry for 5-6 minutes, then carefully flip the onion rings and respray.
• Continue air frying for another 5-10 minutes, or until the onion rings are golden and crispy.
• Note: You may need to cook the onion rings in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Tips for Success:

• Use one hand for the dry ingredients and the other hand for the wet ingredients to minimize mess and clumping.
• For the air fryer method, do not overcrowd the onion rings; cook in batches if needed.
• For deep frying, use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or avocado oil.
• For a less intense onion flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before battering and frying.
• To prevent the batter from falling off, dip each onion ring in the egg mixture twice and cut the onions into thicker slices (about 1/2-inch thick).
• For extra crispiness, spray the onion rings with oil before and after air frying or baking.
• You can make the onion rings ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

With these methods, you can enjoy crispy, juicy, and keto-friendly onion rings as a delicious appetizer or side dish!

Storage and reheating

Leftover keto onion rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place the cooked onion rings in a shallow container and store them in the freezer for up to two months.

To reheat, place the onion rings on a baking tray or aluminum foil and bake in the oven at 200C/400F for 5-6 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about a minute, but they will not be crispy.

Frequently asked questions