Description

This Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion recipe brings the wow factor to your table without any of the deep-frying fuss. It's significantly healthier than its traditional counterpart, skipping the massive amount of oil but still delivering signature crispiness. Perfect for parties or a fun snack, this recipe transforms a beloved indulgence into a nourishing treat for everyone.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large sweet onion (about 1 pound)
1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil), for spraying
½ cup mayonnaise (for dipping sauce)
2 tablespoons ketchup (for dipping sauce)
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (for dipping sauce)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for dipping sauce)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for dipping sauce)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for dipping sauce)

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Instructions

Prepare the Onion: Peel the outer skin from the sweet onion and slice off about ½ inch from the top. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board
Cut the Blossom: Make 4-6 evenly spaced cuts downwards from the root core, keeping the root intact. Cut between these primary cuts to create 12-16 sections and gently separate the petals outward
Soak and Dry: Place the cut onion in ice water for 15-30 minutes, then pat it dry with paper towels
Prepare the Dredging Stations: In one bowl, combine ½ cup of flour with the seasonings. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, milk, and egg
Coat the Onion: Dredge the onion first in the dry flour mixture, then in the wet mixture, and finally back in the dry mixture for a double coating
Preheat and Spray: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the coated onion with oil
Air Fry: Place the onion cut-side up in the air fryer and air fry for 15 minutes. Spray oil again and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes until crispy
Make the Dipping Sauce: Whisk together all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl
Serve: Carefully remove the onion from the air fryer and serve immediately with the dipping sauce

Notes

Choose a firm sweet onion for the best flavor and texture.

Ensure the onion is thoroughly dried to achieve maximum crispiness.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Category: Appetizer
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 onion
Calories: 375 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg