Easy Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Fried Cabbage and Onions

I love adding onion to my air fryer cabbage because the game-changer! The cabbage gets all crispy and tender, and the onion caramelizes and turns sweet, which balances out the slightly bitter cabbage. They cook together perfectly in the air fryer, and the mix of crispy edges with soft, roasted onion is just chef’s kiss. It’s super easy too—just toss it all with some oil and seasoning, and boom, it comes out tasting like you did way more work than you actually did. I like to use the air fryer cabbage and onion mix as a stuffing for Air fryer Egg rolls or add them to Beet and Cabbage soup.

Ingredients

Cabbage: The star of the show is finely shredded or grated cabbage brings a delicate yet robust flavor to the dish. Its slightly sweet and earthy notes harmonize perfectly with the caramelized onions.

Onions: Thinly sliced onions (I used Vidalia and red onion). The onions add a savory depth to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile. The combination of Vidalia and red onions brings a touch of sweetness and a hint of mild spiciness.

Oil: Choose your preferred cooking oil to provide moisture and aid in achieving the desired crispiness. A Tablespoon of Olive oil or avocado oil will work wonderfully, adding a subtle richness to the dish.

Seasoning: I used garlic powder, paprika, and a sprinkle of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. You can also use dried herbs like thyme or parsley to infuse the cabbage and onions with additional layers of flavor.

Salt and pepper to taste: These essential seasonings bring balance and enhance the flavors of the dish.

How to make Fried Cabbage in the Air Fryer

To make air fryer fried cabbage, you will need half a head of cabbage chopped into thin strips and one large onion sliced into half rings. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. In a large bowl, toss the chopped cabbage and sliced onion with olive oil. Add salt & pepper to taste, and a teaspoon of spices of your choice, such as garlic powder or paprika, and toss to combine. You may instead add a teaspoon of your favorite seasoning. I used Vegeta All-Purpose seasoning.

Once your air fryer is heated, add the cabbage and onion mixture to the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes. Toss the mixture halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cabbage and onion should be tender and slightly charred when done. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Variations

You can incorporate other low-carb vegetables into this dish. 

• Bell peppers: Vibrant and crisp, bell peppers make an excellent addition to this dish. Slice them thinly and toss them in with the cabbage and onions for a burst of color and a slightly sweet flavor. My other favorite easy sides are these Air fryer Peppers and Onions and Air-fried Peppers and Mushrooms.
• Zucchini: With its mild and delicate flavor, zucchini lends itself well to the crispy and caramelized treatment in the air fryer. Slice it into thin rounds or strips and mix it in with the cabbage and onions. Zucchini adds a refreshing element and a hint of green goodness to the dish.
• Cabbage Steaks: Instead of strips or wedges, cut the cabbage into thick “steaks,” air fry, and serve as a main course. Here’s my favorite Air Fryer Cabbage Steak Recipe.
• Add Bacon: Mix in small pieces of cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, hearty addition. Or try a one-pot Air-fried Cabbage & Sausage.

Do not over crowd your air fryer: Overcrowding reduces the circulation of hot air around the food, resulting in unevenly cooked and potentially soggy or burned dishes. To ensure that your food is evenly cooked and crispy on all sides, either cook in batches or invest in a larger air fryer (the one I use is Ninja XL 6-in-1). In short, resist the temptation to jam-pack your air fryer, and instead allow ample space for air to circulate for optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage? Absolutely! Red cabbage works just as well and adds a vibrant pop of color to the dish. The flavor is slightly earthier, but it’s just as delicious.

How thin should I slice the cabbage and onions?

For the best results, slice the cabbage into 1/2-inch thick wedges or strips. And the onion into similar-sized wedges or rings. This ensures even cooking and crispy edges.

How to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some of the crispiness.

Can I make this dish oil-free?

Yes, but the cabbage and onions won’t crisp up as much. A light misting of water or vegetable broth can help the seasonings stick.

Are Cabbage and Onions Low in Carbohydrates?

Yes, air fryer cabbage and onions are naturally low in carbs, making them a great option for low-carb or keto diets. Cabbage is especially low in carbs, with about 5 grams of carbohydrates per cup, mostly from fiber. Onions are slightly higher in carbs, around 6 grams of carbs per half-cup when cooked. When used in moderation, they add great flavor without significantly impacting carb intake.