Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Let me tell you—these air fryer onion bhajis have become a total obsession in our house. It all started one rainy afternoon when I was craving something warm, crispy, and comforting, but didn’t want to deep-fry or make a big mess in the kitchen. I remembered having bhajis at a friend’s Diwali party and thought, “Why not try making a lighter version at home?” So I grabbed a few onions, some chickpea flour, and spices, and went for it. Spoiler alert: they turned out amazing!
The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, giving you that irresistible crunch without the greasy guilt. Plus, they’re super budget-friendly, gluten-free, and naturally vegan. My kids love them dipped in a bit of sweet chili sauce, and my husband insists we make a double batch every time. Whether I serve them as a snack, a side dish for curry night, or even tucked into wraps with a bit of yogurt sauce, they disappear fast!
What I especially love is how quick and fuss-free they are. Everything comes together in one bowl, no fancy equipment, and no standing over hot oil. Just pop them in the air fryer, and boom—golden perfection in minutes. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and each time it gets rave reviews. Honestly, I can’t imagine our week without these crunchy little bites of joy.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy but still tasty.
Are they spicy?
Not really. They have warmth from the spices, but they’re mild enough for kids. You can always add a chopped green chili if you like heat!
Can I prep them ahead?
You can mix the batter and slice the onions ahead, but don’t combine everything until ready to cook. The onions will release water if left too long.
Can I freeze onion bhajis?
Absolutely. Cook them fully, cool them down, and freeze. Reheat in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until crispy again.
What do I serve with them?
They’re perfect with mango chutney, yogurt dip, or even as a crunchy topping in a rice bowl!
What You Need to Make Air Fryer Onion Bhaji
Ingredients:
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp chili powder (optional)
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1–2 tbsp water (just enough to bind)
Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
Tools You’ll Need:
Air fryer
Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Prep the Onions: Thinly slice the onions and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to soften and release some moisture.
Mix the Batter: Add the chickpea flour, spices, baking powder, and cilantro to the onions. Use your hands to mix, gently squeezing so the onion juices help bind the batter. Add 1–2 tablespoons of water if it feels too dry.
Form the Bhajis: Take small handfuls of the mixture and form rough little nests or patties (about 2 tablespoons each).
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket with oil or spray. Place bhajis in the basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
Cook: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
Slice onions thinly: This helps them cook evenly and crisp up beautifully.
Don’t overdo the water: The batter should just bind the onions, not be runny.
Use your hands to mix: It helps squeeze out the onion juices, which act as a natural binder.
Batch cook: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed for maximum crispiness.
Try mix-ins: Shredded carrots, spinach, or even finely chopped chili peppers are great additions!
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These came out so crispy and delicious. Even my picky toddler kept asking for more!” – Amanda R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the flavor! I added a green chili for extra spice and it was perfect with mango chutney.” – Priya S.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Busy weeknight win! Took less than 30 minutes and everyone was happy. Will double the batch next time!” – Rachel M.
⭐⭐⭐ “They were tasty, but mine didn’t hold together well—I think I added too much water. Still good though!” – Dan L.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Such a great alternative to deep-fried bhajis. These were light, crispy, and full of flavor!” – Karen T.
Printable Recipe
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Air Fryer Onion Bhajis
These crispy Air Fryer Onion Bhajis are a healthier twist on a classic Indian street food snack. Made with thinly sliced onions, chickpea flour, and aromatic spices, they’re golden, crunchy, and irresistibly good—without the need for deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights, quick snacks, or party platters, these bhajis come together in just 30 minutes and are naturally vegan and gluten-free. Ideal for dipping, snacking, or serving as a side with your favorite curry!
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1–2 tbsp water (just enough to bind)
- Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Air fryer
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prep the Onions: Thinly slice the onions and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to soften and release some moisture.
- Mix the Batter: Add the chickpea flour, spices, baking powder, and cilantro to the onions. Use your hands to mix, gently squeezing so the onion juices help bind the batter. Add 1–2 tablespoons of water if it feels too dry.
- Form the Bhajis: Take small handfuls of the mixture and form rough little nests or patties (about 2 tablespoons each).
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket with oil or spray. Place bhajis in the basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
- Cook: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
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