Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Onion Rings are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic, crispy snack without the excess oil of traditional frying. With a crunchy coating and a tender inside, these onion rings are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Here’s a detailed recipe to make delicious onion rings in your air fryer.

Ingredients

• 2 large onions (preferably sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk if preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Slice the Onions:
   • Peel the onions and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rings. Gently separate the rings from each other.
2. Soak in Buttermilk:
   • Place the onion rings in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are flavorful and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

3. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • In one shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
   • In a second shallow dish, beat the egg.
   • In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 3: Bread the Onion Rings

4. Coat Onion Rings:
   • Remove the onion rings from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off.
   • Dredge each onion ring in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Dip the floured onion ring into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Coat the onion ring in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 4: Air Fry the Onion Rings

5. Preheat Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
6. Arrange Onion Rings:
   • Place the breaded onion rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to work in batches.
7. Spray with Cooking Spray:
   • Lightly spray the onion rings with cooking spray to help them crisp up during cooking.
8. Air Fry:
   • Air fry the onion rings at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket or flip the rings halfway through for even cooking.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the onion rings to cool slightly before serving. This helps them maintain their crispiness.

Step 5: Serve

10. Dip and Enjoy:
    • Serve the onion rings with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Onion Rings

• Even Coating: Ensure the onion rings are evenly coated in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures for the best texture and flavor.
• Crispiness: For extra crispiness, consider using a combination of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Batch Cooking: Cook the onion rings in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent them from getting crispy.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Onion Rings are a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, offering a crispy exterior and tender inside without all the excess oil. Perfect for a snack or as an accompaniment to burgers and sandwiches, these onion rings are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy your homemade, air-fried treat!