Crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
These Air Fryer Onion Bhajis are a healthier twist on the classic Indian snack, delivering all the crispy, flavorful goodness without the deep-frying! Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these bhajis are packed with aromatic spices and tender onions, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a must-try!
Why This Recipe Works
Healthier Option: By using an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy onion bhajis with significantly less oil compared to traditional deep-fried versions. This makes them a guilt-free treat!
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The air fryer does most of the work, ensuring perfectly crispy bhajis every time.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking or add extra ingredients like grated vegetables for a unique twist. These bhajis are versatile and fun to experiment with!
What’s In Air Fryer Onion Bhajis?
The magic of these bhajis lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Onions: Thinly sliced onions are the star of the show, providing sweetness and texture.
- Chickpea Flour (Besan): This gluten-free flour binds the bhajis together and gives them a crispy coating.
- Spices: A blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Baking Powder: Helps the bhajis become light and airy.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro (coriander leaves) adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Oil: A small amount of oil ensures the bhajis crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
How To Make Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
This recipe is straightforward and yields perfectly crispy bhajis every time. Here’s how to make them:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine chickpea flour, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add water gradually and whisk until you have a thick, smooth batter.
- Fold in the sliced onions and chopped cilantro, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Shape the Bhajis
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the onion mixture and shape it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Bhajis
- Place the bhajis in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Lightly spray the tops with oil to help them crisp up.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bhajis from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or your favorite dip.
Sides for Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Pair your onion bhajis with these delicious accompaniments:
- Mint Chutney: A refreshing and tangy dip that complements the spices perfectly.
- Tamarind Sauce: Sweet and tangy, this sauce adds a burst of flavor.
- Masala Chai: A warm cup of spiced tea makes a great pairing for a cozy snack.
- Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon dressing balances the richness of the bhajis.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Make These Bhajis Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shape and air fry the bhajis just before serving for the best texture.
Can I Use a Different Flour?
Chickpea flour is traditional, but you can substitute it with rice flour or all-purpose flour if needed. Note that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bhajis in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Other Recipes To Try
- Air Fryer Samosas: Crispy, flaky pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
- Paneer Tikka: Grilled marinated paneer cubes with a smoky flavor.
- Sweet Potato Pakoras: A unique twist on pakoras using sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness.
- Spiced Lentil Fritters: Protein-packed fritters made with lentils and aromatic spices.
Crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Ingredients
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 1 cup chickpea flour besan
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- ¼ cup water adjust as needed
- 1 tbsp oil for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix chickpea flour, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, baking powder, and salt. Add water to form a thick batter. Fold in onions and cilantro.
- Shape the Bhajis: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Grease the basket. Scoop 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into patties.
- Air Fry: Place bhajis in the basket in a single layer. Spray with oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with mint chutney or tamarind sauce.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust chili powder to taste.
- Make Ahead: Store batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Add-Ins: Try adding grated carrots or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutrition
Enjoy your crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis! Let us know how they turned out in the comments below!