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Air Fryer Onion Petals Recipe

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4.4 from 2 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Onion Petals, perfectly seasoned and breaded for a healthier twist on fried onion rings. These golden brown onion petals are air-fried to perfection, offering a crunchy outside and tender inside, garnished with fresh parsley for added freshness.

Ingredients

Onion

  • 1 large onion (red or any variety)

Breading Station

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or vegan buttermilk: 1 tsp lemon juice + 1 cup plant milk)

Dry Mixture

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika

Breadcrumb Coating

  • 1.5 cups breadcrumbs or panko
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Some paprika, for color

Garnish

  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onion: Slice off the root and tip of the large onion. Remove the peel, cut the onion in half, then quarter it. Further cut the quarters into wedges to separate the petals. Set aside.
  2. Make the Egg-Buttermilk Mixture: In a bowl, beat 2 eggs and combine with 1 cup buttermilk. For vegan buttermilk, mix 1 tsp lemon juice with 1 cup plant-based milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  3. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In another bowl, mix together ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp paprika until well combined.
  4. Season the Breadcrumbs: In a separate bowl, place 1.5 cups breadcrumbs or panko. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for color. Mix well.
  5. First Dip in Wet Mixture: Dip each onion petal into the egg-buttermilk mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Let excess drip off.
  6. Dredge in Flour Mixture: Transfer the dipped petals into the flour-cornstarch mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
  7. Second Dip in Wet Mixture: Dip the coated petals back into the egg-buttermilk mixture for a second wet coating.
  8. Final Coating with Breadcrumbs: Dredge the petals in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Set the breaded onion petals aside.
  9. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  10. Arrange and Air Fry: Place the breaded onion petals in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overlap. Air fry at 180°C (360°F) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Optionally, spray or brush oil on petals for a more golden fried appearance and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  11. Serve: Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • You can use any onion variety, but large sweet or red onions work best for sweetness and size.
  • For a vegan version, replace eggs with a flax egg or aquafaba and use vegan buttermilk as mentioned.
  • Spraying or brushing oil on the onion petals before the final air fry helps achieve a deeper golden color and crispiness.
  • Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or ketchup.