Air Fried Onion Rings Recipe

Onions: Large onions are sliced into rings to form the base of the recipe.

All-purpose flour: Used to create the initial coating for the onion rings.

Baking powder: Helps the coating puff up slightly for a better texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the onion rings.

Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps the coating adhere to the onions.

Breadcrumbs: Provides the crispy outer layer for the onion rings.

Paprika: Adds a mild spice and color to the coating.

Garlic powder: Infuses the coating with a savory garlic flavor.

When coating the onion rings, ensure that you press the breadcrumbs mixture firmly onto the rings. This helps create a thicker, more even crust that will crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Additionally, using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs can yield an even crunchier texture.

• large onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor, which can provide a different but pleasant taste for the onion rings.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the onion rings slightly healthier.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Use half the amount of baking soda as a substitute for baking powder, but add an acidic ingredient like vinegar or lemon juice to activate it.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a deeper umami flavor along with the saltiness, enhancing the overall taste of the onion rings.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a good alternative to buttermilk.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, which can give the onion rings a better crunch.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and a similar smoky flavor, making it a good substitute for paprika.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and can complement the onion rings well.

• Allow the onion rings to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled onion rings in an airtight container. If stacking them, use parchment paper between layers to maintain their crispiness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crunch.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled onion rings on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.

• Transfer the frozen onion rings to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen onion rings directly in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover onion rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Use an air fryer to reheat the onion rings. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the rings in a single layer in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For a quick microwave method, place the onion rings on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the oven or air fryer.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the onion rings on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• For stovetop reheating, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the onion rings in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the onion rings, ensuring they become crispy without the need for deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, as well as to mix the breadcrumbs with paprika and garlic powder.

• Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix the dry ingredients and the breadcrumb mixture.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the onion rings into the buttermilk, flour mixture, and breadcrumb mixture, and for flipping them in the air fryer.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, buttermilk, and breadcrumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the baking powder, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to slice the onions into rings.

• Knife: Used to slice the onions into rings.

• Plate: Handy for holding the coated onion rings before placing them in the air fryer.

• Cooking spray: Helps to lightly coat the air fryer basket to prevent the onion rings from sticking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Slice the onions and measure out all your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a production line: Set up a station with buttermilk, flour mixture, and breadcrumbs to quickly coat the onion rings.

Preheat the air fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to save cooking time and achieve even crispiness.

Batch cooking: Cook onion rings in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures they cook evenly and quickly.

Clean as you go: Keep your workspace tidy by cleaning up while the onion rings are cooking.