Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Soak the Onions: Place the thinly sliced onions in a bowl with the milk. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to soften the onions and allows the flour mixture to adhere better.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Dredge the Onions
- Drain Onions: Drain the onions and discard the milk. Ensure the onions are well-drained but still moist.
- Coat the Onions: Transfer the onions to the bowl with the flour mixture. Toss them until they are evenly coated with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 3: Air Fry the Onions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
- Prepare the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Onions: Place the coated onions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Spray the onions lightly with cooking spray.
- Fry: Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even frying. The onions should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool and Crisp: Let the fried onions cool slightly on a paper towel-lined plate. They will crisp up further as they cool.
- Serve: Use the crispy fried onions as a topping for burgers, green bean casseroles, or salads. They can also be enjoyed as a crunchy snack.
Conclusion
Air fryer crispy fried onions are a quick and healthier alternative to traditional fried onions. This method reduces the amount of oil used, resulting in a lighter, but still satisfyingly crispy texture. These onions can elevate the taste and texture of various dishes, making them a versatile and delicious addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy your air-fried onions with less guilt and more flavor!