Air-Fried Onion Bajji: A Tasty, Healthy Treat!

Making onion bajji in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, without compromising on taste. This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, and can be served as a side dish or a starter with Indian meals. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the cooking process is mess-free and quick.

Choosing the right type of onion

Variety:

When it comes to choosing onions for bajji, you can opt for red, white, or yellow onions. Red onions add a touch of sweetness to the dish, while white and yellow onions offer a more pungent and sharp flavour. You can also mix and match these varieties to create a unique taste.

Size:

Look for onions that are slightly larger than tennis balls. This will ensure you have enough onion to work with and create generously-sized bajji.

Texture:

The ideal onion for bajji should be firm and crisp. Avoid onions that feel soft or squishy, as they may not hold their shape well during the frying process.

Freshness:

Choose fresh onions with tight, dry skins. Avoid onions with sprouting roots or signs of mould. Fresh onions will not only taste better but will also have a better texture after frying.

Taste:

Consider your preference for mild or sharp flavours when selecting onions. Some onions have a milder taste, while others can be quite pungent. If you want a milder flavour, look for sweet varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla onions.

Preparation:

Before making onion bajji, you'll need to slice the onions thinly and evenly. This will ensure they cook properly in the air fryer and create a nice, crispy texture. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to get uniform slices.

By choosing the right type of onion and preparing it properly, you'll be well on your way to making delicious and crispy onion bajji in your air fryer!

Preparing the onions

Firstly, select the right type and quantity of onions for your bajji. You can use red, white, or yellow onions, or a combination of these. The number of onions you need will depend on their size and the desired yield. For instance, a recipe might call for 2 large white onions, 1 small red onion, or 3 small brown onions.

Once you have your onions, slice them thinly. Aim for a fine slice, almost like a julienne. You can also cut the onions in half before slicing to make it easier. After slicing, place the onions in a large bowl and sprinkle a generous amount of salt over them. Use about a teaspoon of fine sea salt or adjust the amount to your taste preferences. Scrunch the salted onions with your hands and let them rest for about 30 minutes to an hour. This process helps draw out the moisture from the onions, which is essential for creating the perfect batter.

After the resting period, you will notice that the onions have become limp and moist. Squeeze the onions with your hands to release their water into the bowl. You can also use a clean cloth or cheesecloth to wring out the excess water. Drain off the water, and your onions are now ready for the next step!

Some recipes suggest soaking the sliced onions in cold water for about 10 minutes instead of sprinkling salt. This method also helps to remove the sharp taste of the onions and makes them more palatable.

Making the batter

To make the batter for onion bhajis in an air fryer, you will need to slice the onions and mix them with the dry ingredients in a bowl. The dry ingredients include gram flour/chickpea flour, rice flour, and spices such as ground coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. You can also add a small amount of baking powder.

The next step is to slowly add water to the mixture to form a batter. You may need to add extra drops of water if the batter feels too thick. The batter should be thick but not too dry. If it is too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water at a time until you get the right consistency.

Some recipes suggest allowing the onions to rest in the dry flour for 20 minutes to an hour before adding water. This helps the onions release their moisture, which can then be used to form the batter. You can also sprinkle a bit of salt on the onions to help release the water.

Once you have a thick batter, you can add a teaspoon of oil and mix it in. If the batter becomes too watery during the frying process, you can add a little more gram flour.

Cooking the bhajis

Now it's time to cook your onion bhajis in the air fryer. First, you'll need to preheat your air fryer. Most recipes recommend preheating to between 175°C and 200°C, but be sure to check your air fryer's instructions. While the air fryer is preheating, brush the basket with oil or line it with baking paper.

Next, it's time to add the bhaji mixture to the air fryer. You can do this by forming the mixture into loose balls or small lumps and placing them in the basket. Make sure the bhajis don't touch each other, and don't overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the bhajis in batches.

Once you've added the bhajis to the air fryer, brush the tops with a little oil. Then, air fry for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. If your bhajis are browning too quickly, you can reduce the heat to 175°C for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remember to flip the bhajis halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Finally, transfer the cooked bhajis to a serving plate and enjoy! They can be served hot or at room temperature.

Serving suggestions

• Serve with a coriander chutney, ketchup, tamarind chutney, or raita on the side.
• For a curry night, pair them with coriander garlic naan bread, dal tarka, coconut chickpea curry, veg korma, and cucumber raita.
• Serve with roti, chana masala, and rogan josh.
• Enjoy with a cup of masala chai or strong filter coffee.
• For a starter, serve with Punjabi Kadhi Pakora.
• Dip them in a yogurt sauce or a coriander mint chutney.
• Enjoy as a side dish with Indian fakeaway meals.
• Serve with mango chutney.

Frequently asked questions