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AIR FRYER ONION RINGS

Introduction

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we enjoy our favorite fried foods, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. These Air Fryer Onion Rings are a testament to that innovation, delivering all the crunch and taste you crave with a fraction of the oil used in traditional deep frying methods. Perfectly crispy and packed with flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite appetizer or side dish in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium yellow onions, sliced ½ inch thick and separated into rings
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ⅔ cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Breading Stations:
  • Arrange three bowls. In one bowl, combine flour, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. In the third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
  1. Coat Onion Rings:
  • Dip each onion ring first into the buttermilk/egg mixture, then into the flour mixture, back into the buttermilk/egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  1. Preheat Air Fryer:
  • Brush or spritz the air fryer basket with vegetable oil and preheat to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not use aerosol spray. Brush or spritz the onion rings with vegetable oil.
  1. Air Fry Onion Rings:
  • Lay the coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-7 minutes or until crispy. Check them periodically as air fryer cooking times may vary.

Tips

  • Opt for sweet yellow or Vidalia onions for a milder flavor profile.
  • To prevent the flour and breadcrumb mixture from becoming soggy, split them between two bowls.
  • Make your own buttermilk by combining 2/3 cup of milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Use one hand for dipping the onion rings in the buttermilk mixture and the other hand for coating them with flour and breadcrumbs to avoid sticky fingers.
  • Lightly spread oil over the breaded onion rings and in the air fryer basket using an oil mister or pastry brush. Avoid using aerosol non-stick cooking sprays as they may damage the air fryer.
  • Air fryer temperatures can vary, so it’s advisable to check on the onion rings periodically during cooking.
See also  BEEF FRIED RICE

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?
A: While yellow onions work well, you can also use sweet yellow or Vidalia onions for a milder flavor.

Q: How do I reheat leftover onion rings?
A: Simply place them back in the preheated air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore their crispiness.

Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs?
A: Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their crispiness, but you can use regular breadcrumbs as an alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly.