Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 300°F (150°C). A lower temp helps prevent scorching, especially for garlic and onion flakes.
Mix the seeds: In a bowl, combine sesame seeds and poppy seeds.
Hold back the garlic, onion, and salt for now. They toast faster and can burn if added too early.
Toast the seeds: Spread the seed mixture in a thin, even layer on a small piece of foil or a shallow, air fryer–safe tray. Air fry for 3–5 minutes, shaking the tray halfway.
You’re looking for a light golden color and a nutty aroma.
Add the aromatics: Stir in the dried minced onion and garlic. Return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes, watching closely. When the garlic and onion smell toasty and just begin to deepen in color, pull them out immediately.
Cool and salt: Let the mixture cool completely in a bowl.
Stir in the salt and any optional add-ins. Taste and adjust salt or garlic to your preference.
Store: Transfer to an airtight jar. Label it so you remember the date and any tweaks you made.