Heat a deep pot with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the onions.
While the oil is heating, thinly slice the onions into rings or strips.
Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add a small batch of sliced onions to the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Be cautious to avoid splattering.
Fry the onions in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, usually around 3-4 minutes per batch. Stir occasionally to ensure even frying.
Using the slotted spoon, remove the fried onions from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Sprinkle the fried onions with a pinch of salt while they are still hot. Repeat the frying process with the remaining onions.
Allow the fried onions to cool slightly before using them as a topping for dishes like biryani, green bean casserole, or burgers.
Notes
How to make this in the air fryer:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). 2. While the air fryer is preheating, thinly slice the onions into rings or strips. 3. If desired, lightly coat the sliced onions with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to help with crisping. 4. Place the sliced onions in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. 5. Cook the onions in the air fryer for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring the onions every few minutes for even cooking. They should become crispy and golden brown. 6. Sprinkle the fried onions with a pinch of salt while they are still hot. 7. Remove the fried onions from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before using them as a topping for salads, sandwiches, or as a crunchy snack.
The thinner the onions are sliced, the faster they will fry and the crispier they will become. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness if available.
Maintaining the right temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the onions will burn; if it’s too cold, they will absorb oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the correct temperature.
Do not overcrowd the pan as this can cause a drop in oil temperature and lead to uneven frying. Fry in small batches for the best results.
For additional flavor, consider adding a small pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder to the salt you sprinkle on the fried onions after cooking.
Fried onions can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.