Crispy Homemade Air Fryer Onion Rings

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Step 1: Prepare the Onions

  1. Slice the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rings. Gently separate the rings from each other.
  2. Soak the Rings: For extra crispy rings, soak the onion rings in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step is optional but helps to remove some of the bitterness and improve the crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

  1. Mix Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Prepare Egg Mixture: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
  3. Prepare Breadcrumbs: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Onion Rings

  1. Coat with Flour: Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip in Egg: Dip the floured onion ring into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the onion ring with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
  4. Place on a Tray: Arrange the breaded onion rings on a plate or tray in a single layer.

Step 4: Air Fry the Onion Rings

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. Arrange Onion Rings: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the onion rings in a single layer in the basket. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  3. Air Fry: Cook the onion rings at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the onion rings from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness.
  2. Serve: Enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, or a spicy aioli.

Tips and Variations

  • Spicy Rings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Cheesy Onion Rings: Mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these onion rings gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (about 4 onion rings) provides approximately:

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg

Conclusion

Crispy Homemade Air Fryer Onion Rings are a delightful and healthier way to enjoy this classic favorite. With a crunchy exterior and tender interior, these onion rings are perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even as an appetizer. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich flavor with less oil and effort!

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