Air Fryer Onion Bhaji Recipe

Onions: Thinly sliced to create the base of the bhaji, providing texture and flavor.

Chickpea flour: Also known as gram flour or besan, it forms the batter that holds the bhaji together.

Cumin seeds: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the batter.

Crushed coriander seeds: Provides a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor.

Turmeric powder: Adds color and a subtle earthy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bhaji.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat to the batter.

Water: Used to create the batter consistency.

Oil: For greasing the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.

When making onion bhajis in an air fryer, ensure the onions are sliced thinly and evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and become crispy. Additionally, when mixing the batter, gradually add the water to achieve the right consistency; it should be thick enough to coat the onions but not too runny. For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the cumin seeds and crushed coriander seeds before adding them to the batter.

• onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a similar flavor profile but are slightly sweeter and milder, making them a good substitute for onions in bhajis.

• chickpea flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: While chickpea flour is traditional, all-purpose flour can be used in a pinch, though it will lack the nutty flavor and gluten-free properties.

• cumin seeds - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin can be used if cumin seeds are unavailable, though it will blend more into the batter rather than providing bursts of flavor.

• crushed coriander seeds - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can replace crushed seeds, offering a similar citrusy and slightly sweet flavor.

• turmeric powder - Substitute with saffron: Saffron can provide a similar color and a unique flavor, though it is more expensive and should be used sparingly.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a milder heat and a similar color, making it a good substitute for chili powder.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add extra flavor to the batter, enhancing the overall taste of the bhajis.

• oil - Substitute with cooking spray: Cooking spray can be used to grease the air fryer basket, providing a lighter and more even coating than oil.

• Allow the onion bhajis to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled onion bhajis in an airtight container. If stacking them, use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 360°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled onion bhajis on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer the frozen onion bhajis to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, reheat the frozen onion bhajis directly in the air fryer at 360°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover onion bhaji in the basket, making sure they don't overlap. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the onion bhaji on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the onion bhaji on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the air fryer or oven.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan. Place the onion bhaji in the skillet and heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking appliance used to make the onion bhajis crispy and golden brown without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chickpea flour, spices, and water to create the batter, and to mix in the sliced onions.

• Whisk: Essential for gradually mixing water into the dry ingredients to form a thick batter.

• Knife: Needed to slice the onions thinly and evenly.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the onions.

• Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure out the spices and salt.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the chickpea flour and water.

• Oil brush: Useful for greasing the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

• Spatula: Helps in placing the onion mixture into the air fryer basket and removing the cooked bhajis.

• Serving plate: For presenting the hot, crispy onion bhajis with your favorite chutney or dipping sauce.

Pre-slice onions: Slice the onions in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Measure spices ahead: Measure out all your spices and store them in a small bowl or container.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to slice the onions quickly and evenly.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of batter and store it in the fridge for up to two days.

Preheat air fryer: Preheat your air fryer while preparing the batter to save time.

Non-stick spray: Use non-stick spray instead of oil to grease the air fryer basket quickly.