If you’re a fan of crunchy, savory snacks, these Air Fryer Onion Fritters are about to become your go-to recipe. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is quick, mess-free, and delicious. Using an air fryer means less oil, less guilt, and more crunch—perfect for a healthier take on a classic favorite.
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Whether you’re new to onion fritters or a seasoned fan of Indian-inspired snacks, this easy recipe will surprise you with its simplicity and incredible flavor. The secret lies in Remi’s SpiceCraft Onion Bhaji Mix, which adds a perfect blend of spices that complement the sweet, caramelized flavor of onions.
Remi, a member of our Air Fryer group on Facebook and the creator of the YouTube channel Remi’s World, is passionate about air fryer cooking and sharing the flavors of Indian cuisine. Recently, she’s taken her culinary creativity to the next level by crafting her own signature spice mix!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Onion Fritters
Healthy Alternative: Unlike deep-fried fritters, these use significantly less oil without sacrificing flavor or crispiness.
Quick and Easy: With just five ingredients, this recipe comes together in minutes.
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any meal.
Diet-Friendly: These fritters can easily be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets (details below).
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 large onion: Thinly sliced into half-moons. The fresher the onion, the sweeter and more flavorful your fritters will be.
Remi’s SpiceCraft Onion Bhaji Mix: This mix is packed with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric for an authentic flavor. Or see the full list of Ingredients in the printable recipe card below.
½ cup water: To help bind the ingredients and form a smooth batter.
1 Tablespoon oil: This is used in the batter to add richness and a touch of crispiness to the fritters. Plus extra for brushing the onion fritters in the air fryer, or use oil spray to spritz the fritters.
3 Tablespoons Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Onions: Slice the onions thinly and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and let them sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps release moisture.
Step 2. Make the Batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine Remi’s SpiceCraft Onion Bhaji Mix, water, oil and chopped cilantro. (Please refer to the full list of Ingredients in the printable recipe card below). Mix until smooth and lump-free. I recommend using your hands. Feel free to wear gloves. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the onions without being overly runny. Here’s an instructional video.
Step 3: Shape the Fritters. Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Scoop small mounds of the onion mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the parchment paper. Shape them into rough rounds for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding; leave some space between the fritters.
Step 4: Air Fry Onion Fritters. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Air fry onion fritters for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. The fritters are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Onion Fritters are best served hot and fresh. Pair them with:
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool contrast to the warm spices in the fritters.
- Chili Sauce or Spicy Chipotle Mayo: For an extra burst of flavor.
- Mint Chutney: Blend together: 1 small cucumber, 1/2 cup mint leaves , 1 cup cilantro , half lime juice , salt per taste, cumin seed, 1 garlic clove, and a small ginger piece.
Tips for the Perfect Onion Fritters
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and a high-quality spice mix like Remi’s SpiceCraft ensure bold, vibrant flavors.
2. Adjust Batter Consistency: If the batter feels too runny, add a teaspoon of flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option). If too thick, add a splash of water.
3. Don’t Skip the Flip: Flipping the fritters halfway ensures even cooking and crispy edges.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking in batches allows hot air to circulate around each fritter, giving them a nice crunch.
Customization Ideas
Add Veggies. Throw in some grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and a colorful twist.
Vegan-Friendly. This recipe is naturally vegan, but double-check that your spice mix contains no animal products if you’re strictly plant-based.
Why Air Fryers Are a Game-Changer for Fritters
Traditional onion fritters are deep-fried, which can be messy and heavy on oil. Air frying achieves the same crispy texture with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative without compromising flavor. Plus, the air fryer is quicker and more convenient, with no lingering oil smell in your kitchen.
The Healthier Snack. Each fritter is a bite-sized bundle of flavor with significantly fewer calories than its deep-fried counterpart.
Lower Fat Content: Thanks to the air fryer, these fritters are crispy without being greasy.
Packed with Flavor: The spices in Remi’s SpiceCraft mix pack a punch, eliminating the need for additional seasoning.
High in Fiber: Onions are a great source of fiber, which helps keep you full and supports digestion.
How to Store and Reheat
If you somehow manage to have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To restore their crispy texture, pop the fritters back into the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
More Fritter Recipes You’ll Love
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Super Easy Air Fryer Onion Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large onion or 2 medium onions. Red, sweet, or yellow onion. I used Vidalia.Thinly sliced into half-moons.
- 1 cup chickpea flour or all-purpose flour. Feel free to use almond flour or buckwheat flour.
- 2 Tablespoons Rice Flour optional, for extra crispiness
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala optional. Garam Masala.
- 3 Tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water as needed, to form a batter
- 1 TBS Oil I used Olive oil or avocado oil
Optional
- 1 pack Onion fritter mix Remi's SpiceCraft Onion Fritter Mix.
Instructions
- Prep the Onions: Slice the onions thinly and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and let them sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps release moisture.
- Mix the Batter: Add chickpea flour, rice flour, cumin seeds, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and cilantro to the onions. Mix well, gradually adding water to create a thick, sticky batter that coats the onion slices. Alternatively, use Remis SpiceCraft Onion Fritter Mix.Mix until smooth and lump-free. I recommend using your hands. Feel free to wear gloves. The batter should be thick enough to cling to the onions without being overly runny. Here's instructional video.
- Shape the Fritters. Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Scoop small mounds of the onion mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the parchment paper. Shape them into rough rounds for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding; leave some space between the fritters.
- Air Fry. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Air fry onion fritters for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. The fritters are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve hot and fresh. Pair with Greek Yogurt Dip, Mint Chutney, Chili Sauce or Spicy Chipotle Mayo.
Notes
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, cook in smaller batches.
- Adjust spices to your taste—add more chili powder for a spicy kick or skip garam masala if you prefer a milder flavor.
