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Homemade onion rings are a delightful and satisfying comfort food that many people cherish. Their combination of sweetness from the onions, a crispy exterior, and a tender bite makes them a favorite appetizer or side dish in many households. Whether served alongside a juicy burger or enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce, the appeal of crispy, flavorful onion rings is undeniable. The joy of crafting these delicious morsels from scratch is an experience that elevates the dining table and brings a sense of accomplishment to home cooks.

Crunchy Air-Fried Onion Rings

Discover the joy of making homemade crispy onion rings with this delightful recipe! Perfect as a snack or side dish, these rings offer a sweet and savory crunch. Using an air fryer, you can achieve that golden-brown texture with less oil, making them a healthier option. This recipe walks you through the essential ingredients and preparation steps, ensuring a satisfying, crispy bite every time. Experiment with seasonings and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible treat!
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Ingredients
  

2 large onions (preferably sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with a plant-based milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil

Instructions
 

Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and set them aside.

    Set Up Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with dried oregano.

      Coat the Onion Rings: Dip each onion ring first into the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, and lastly, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Rings: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches; do not overcrowd.

            Cook: Air fry the onion rings for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray halfway through for added crunchiness.

              Serve: Once they are done, remove the onion rings from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy aioli.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings