Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis are a healthier, oil-free twist on a classic Indian snack featuring spiced onions coated in a light chickpea flour batter. Cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, these gluten-free bhajis deliver bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 12-15 bhajis 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- Chopped cilantro (about 2 tablespoons)
Batter & Spices
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water, as needed (approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup) to form thick batter
For Cooking
- Oil spray (light mist for crisping)
- Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice about two medium onions and separate them into rings or thin strips to ensure even cooking and achieve a soft yet crisp bite.
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine chickpea flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water while stirring continuously until a thick batter forms that can coat the onions well without dripping excessively.
- Combine Onions and Batter: Gently fold the sliced onions and chopped cilantro into the batter, ensuring everything is evenly coated and the batter holds the onions together for shaping.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes for a crispy, even cook.
- Form and Cook Bhajis: Use a spoon to scoop small clumps of the onion batter onto the air fryer basket or tray. Lightly spray the tops with oil to aid crisping. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crunchy on all sides.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer cooked bhajis to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or dip.
Notes
- Dry onions thoroughly to avoid soggy bhajis.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to promote even cooking.
- A light oil spray enhances crispiness without adding excess fat.
- Use fresh chickpea flour for best texture and flavor.
- Flip bhajis halfway through cooking for uniform golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bhajis
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: onion bhajis, air fryer recipes, gluten-free appetizers, crispy snacks, Indian snacks, vegan appetizers