Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Introduction

The iconic blooming onion is reimagined in the air fryer, offering a lighter version of the deep-fried favorite. This Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion recipe captures the essence of the classic appetizer with less oil, featuring tender onion petals encased in a crispy, seasoned coating. Served with a spicy dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for sharing and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the delicious crunch and flavor of a blooming onion made easy and healthier in the air fryer.

Ingredients List - Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe

• 1 large sweet onion

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Cooking spray

For the Spicy Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 2 teaspoons horseradish

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt to taste

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Onion: Cut off the top of the onion, peel it, and then cut the onion into a blooming shape by making several downward cuts all around, being careful not to cut through the bottom.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

3. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

4. Bread the Onion: Dip the onion in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure the petals are well-coated.

5. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 3 minutes.

6. Cook: Place the breaded onion in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the onion is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.

8. Serve: Serve the blooming onion hot with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Pro Tips and Suggestions

• To ensure the onion petals separate and bloom nicely, soak the cut onion in ice water for a few hours before drying and breading.

• For an extra crispy coating, double bread the onion by repeating the flour and egg dip process before coating with panko breadcrumbs.

• Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and to ensure the onion petals are as crispy as possible.

Interesting Alterations You May Want to Try

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

• Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.

• Try a yogurt-based sauce for dipping for a lighter, tangier complement to the spicy blooming onion.

Key Takeaways and Calories

• The Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion offers a healthier alternative to the traditionally deep-fried appetizer, maintaining the crunch and flavor with significantly less oil.

• This dish is perfect for entertaining, providing a visually impressive and deliciously satisfying option for guests.

• A serving of this blooming onion, excluding the dipping sauce, is approximately 400-500 calories, making it a lighter indulgence.

Conclusion

The Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion recipe is a testament to the versatility of the air fryer, allowing you to enjoy classic favorites in a healthier way. This dish brings the fun and flavor of a blooming onion to your table with less guilt, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a savory snack, this air-fried blooming onion with its spicy dipping sauce is sure to satisfy.