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Air Fryer Pearl Onions Recipe

5 from 107 reviews

Crispy and flavorful air fried pearl onions, perfectly coated with a seasoned flour and egg batter for a delicious snack or side dish. These bite-sized onions are easy to prepare using the air fryer, achieving a golden, crunchy exterior while retaining a tender interior.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions

  • 1/2 bag frozen pearl onions

Batter & Coating

  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 egg

Other

  • Oil in a spray bottle

Instructions

  1. Partial Microwave Cook: Microwave the frozen pearl onions for half the time recommended on the package (about 2 minutes) to soften them slightly for easier coating.
  2. Prepare Egg Mixture: Beat one egg in a medium-sized bowl until fully mixed and set aside.
  3. Mix Seasoned Flour: In a separate bowl, combine one cup flour with 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, stirring well to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. Drain and Dry Onions: Drain the microwaved onions using a colander and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the coating sticks better.
  5. First Flour Coat: Take about six onions at a time, dip them into the flour mixture and stir to fully coat each onion.
  6. Egg Dip: Using a fork, lift the floured onions out and shake off excess flour, then place them in the beaten egg mixture and stir to coat thoroughly.
  7. Second Flour Coat: Remove the onions from the egg with a different fork, letting excess egg drip off, then place back into the flour mixture for a second coating of flour.
  8. Repeat Coating: Continue this three-step coating process until all onions are evenly coated with the seasoned batter.
  9. Refrigerate: Spread the coated onions on a tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help the batter adhere better during cooking.
  10. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.
  11. Arrange Onions: Place the onions in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to allow even air circulation and cooking.
  12. First Air Fry: Spray the onions lightly with oil and air fry at 380°F for 3 minutes to begin crisping.
  13. Shake and Spray: Remove the basket, shake the onions to redistribute, spray again with oil for extra crispiness.
  14. Final Air Fry: Air fry for an additional 3 minutes at 380°F until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Notes

  • If you prefer not to microwave, you can blanch the frozen pearl onions in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before proceeding with drying and coating.
  • Ensure onions are well dried after microwaving to prevent soggy coating.
  • Use oil spray instead of pouring to maintain crispiness without excess oiliness.
  • Refrigeration step is important as it helps the coating stick firmly for a better crunch after frying.

Keywords: air fryer pearl onions, crispy pearl onions, air fried onions, snack recipe, side dish, crispy coated onions