Air Fryer Onion Bhaji (Tasty Indian Snack)

Name: Air Fryer Onion Bhaji
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 red onions, thinly sliced; 1 cup gram flour (besan), a key among ingredients for onion bhaji; 1 tsp cumin powder, part of the classic spices for onion bhaji; 1 tsp coriander powder; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste); 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 3-4 tbsp water (or as needed to create the batter); Cooking spray for the air fryer basket; Gram flour can be substituted with chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.; To adjust the spice level, feel free to modify the amounts of cumin, coriander, and chili powder.

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The air fryer onion bhaji recipe is a tasty, delicious Indian snack that you can cook in just 15 minutes at 360°F. How? Simply mix your sliced onions and spices, coat them in batter, and place them in the air fryer basket, and you’re all set. Honestly, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the tasty snack!

Making onion bhaji in an air fryer brings a healthier twist to an iconic dish in Indian cuisine. Traditionally deep-fried, onion bhaji is a beloved snack that’s both flavorful and comforting. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic with fewer calories and less guilt. Trust me, once you try the air fryer method, you’ll appreciate both its ease and the healthier frying alternatives it offers.

Why Choose Air Fryer Onion Bhaji?

Opting for onion bhaji in air fryer comes with several advantages:

Less oil usage means fewer calories and a lower fat content, making for a healthier Onion Bhaji.
Air frying produces a crispy texture that’s hard to beat, closely mimicking the beloved crunch of traditionally fried bhajis.
It’s a cleaner, safer cooking method, eliminating the splatter and waste of deep frying.
Quick and efficient, air frying saves time, letting you enjoy your favorite traditional snack without the wait.

These points underscore why using an air fryer is not only a healthier cooking method but also a practical choice for busy lifestyles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To cook delicious air fryer onion bhaji, you’ll need the following essentials:

2 red onions, thinly sliced
1 cup gram flour (besan), a key among ingredients for onion bhaji
1 tsp cumin powder, part of the classic spices for onion bhaji
1 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3-4 tbsp water (or as needed to create the batter)
Cooking spray for the air fryer basket

For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some alternatives:

Gram flour can be substituted with chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.
To adjust the spice level, feel free to modify the amounts of cumin, coriander, and chili powder.

Cooking Equipment

Having the right equipment is crucial for achieving the perfect air fryer onion bhaji. Here’s what you’ll need:

An air fryer: This is non-negotiable. Your air fryer will give the bhajis their crispy texture without the need for deep frying.
Mixing bowl: For combining the onion bhaji ingredients.
Measuring spoons: To accurately measure your spices and salt.
A spatula: For mixing the ingredients and ensuring the onions are well-coated with the gram flour and spices mixture.
Parchment paper or a lightly greased air fryer basket: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Please ensure your air fryer is the right size for the amount you plan to cook. A smaller model may require cooking in batches.

How to Make Onion Bhaji in Air Fryer

Preparing the Onion Mixture

Step 1: Start by properly slicing onions into thin strips. This ensures they cook evenly and contribute to the crispy onion snack texture.

Thinly Sliced Red Onions for Onion Bhaji

Step 2: Place the sliced onions in a large mixing bowl. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the onions are evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for flavoring our healthy Indian appetizers.

Preparing the Batter

Step 3: To the spiced onions, sprinkle the gram flour over the top. This is where we focus on how to prepare onion bhaji batter.

Mixing Gram Flour, Spices, and Water Into Sliced Onions

Step 4: Gradually add water and mix until a thick batter forms. It should coat the onions without being too runny. Batter consistency is key here; use mixing techniques that fold the mixture to prevent squashing the onions. This ensures each bhaji is perfectly coated.

Shaping and Cooking

Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This air fryer temperature is ideal for cooking onion bhaji in air fryer.

Step 6: Shape the onion mixture into small patties. If the mixture doesn’t hold together, add a bit more gram flour.

Shaping Onion Mixture into Bhajis for Air Frying

Step 7: Place the bhajis in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching; cook in batches if necessary.

Placing Onion Bhajis in Air Fryer Basket

Step 8: Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip the bhajis and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.

Note: For the best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer. This ensures each bhaji gets enough air flow to become crispy.

Using these cooking instructions, once you try making onion bhaji this way, you’ll see why the air fryer is my favorite tool for cooking onion bhaji.

Air Fryer Onion Bhaji Nutritional Info

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 4

Calories: 150 kcal

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving	% Daily Value *
Total Fat	2g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.5g	2.5%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	27g	9%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	4g
Protein	6g
Calcium	20mg	2%
Iron	1.8mg	10%
Potassium	350mg	7%

% Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: This table is a guideline. For those with specific dietary requirements or restrictions, adjustments to the recipe may alter the nutritional content. Always consult a nutritionist or use a detailed nutritional calculator for the most accurate information.

Tips for Perfect Onion Bhajis

Making homemade onion bhajis can be an art form. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection:

For those with dietary restrictions, consider using chickpea flour for a gluten-free snack. It’s a great substitute that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
If you’re looking to make a vegan onion bhaji recipe, ensure all your spices and gram flour are certified vegan. Many are, but it’s always best to check.
Achieving the right Crispiness involves not just the cooking method but also the batter consistency. If the batter is too wet, add a bit more flour. Too dry? A splash more water.
Letting the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavor and texture of the bhajis. This allows the flavors to meld together and the flour to hydrate properly.
When air frying, don’t overcrowd the basket. Air circulation is key to getting that perfect crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.

These tips are all about making tweaks that suit your taste and dietary needs while ensuring those crispy, flavorful onion bhajis every time.

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Serving Suggestions

Spicy onion fritters are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dips and side dishes for a delightful meal:

What to serve with onion bhaji: A simple green salad or a mix of cucumber and yogurt salad balances the flavors well.
For dips, coriander chutney and tamarind sauce are traditional and complement the fritters’ taste. They add a tangy or herby contrast that elevates the overall experience.
A mint yogurt dip can offer a refreshing, cool counterpoint to the spicy onion fritters.
For a heartier meal, pair with a side of basmati rice or naan bread to soak up any extra dips or sauces.

Remember, the key to a great meal is balance. Pairing your bhajis with the right dipping sauces for bhaji and sides can turn a simple snack into a feast.

Served Crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis with Dipping Sauces

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing onion bhaji, the key is to keep them crisp and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how:

Allow the bhajis to cool completely before storing. This prevents steam from making them soggy.
Use air tight containers to store the bhajis. Place a piece of paper towel at the bottom to absorb any excess moisture.
Reheating air fryer bhajis is simple. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (reheating temperatures). Reheat the bhajis for 3-4 minutes or until they are hot and crispy again.

Following these tips will help maintain that desirable crunch even after a day or two.

FAQs about Air Fryer Onion Bhaji

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of gram flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but the texture and taste will slightly differ from traditional onion bhajis made with gram flour.

Are Onion Bhajis vegan and gluten-free?

Typically, onion bhajis are vegan since they contain no animal products. When made with gram flour, they are also gluten-free. However, substitutions or additional ingredients might change this.

How can I ensure my Onion Bhajis are crispy?

To ensure crispiness, make sure the batter isn’t too wet, the bhajis aren’t overcrowded in the air fryer, and cook them at the right temperature.

How do I prevent my Onion Bhaji from becoming soggy?

Avoid storing them in airtight containers immediately after cooking. Let them cool to allow steam to escape, and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.

Are air fryer onion bhajis healthy?

Yes, air fryer onion bhajis are healthier than their deep-fried counterparts due to significantly less oil usage, which reduces calorie intake.

How long to cook onion bhajis in air fryer?

Cook onion bhajis in the air fryer for 15 minutes at 360°F, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.

Final Words

I really encourage you to try this air fryer onion bhaji recipe. It’s a healthy onion bhaji recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Whether you’re craving some spicy onion fritters or looking for a new air fryer adventure, this recipe is sure to delight.

If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, please do. I’m very happy to hear from fellow air fryer enthusiasts and food lovers.

Your feedback and stories make this journey all the more rewarding. Let’s keep making delicious, healthy food together.