Air Fryer Blooming Onion:
An Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a fun and delicious appetizer that mimics the popular restaurant version, but it’s healthier since it’s made in an air fryer. Here’s a recipe for making this tasty treat:
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion (preferably Vidalia or sweet onion)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Cooking spray
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onion:
- Cut off the top of the onion (the end that does not have roots).
- Peel the outer skin off the onion.
- Place the onion cut-side down. Starting about 1/2 inch from the root, make a downward cut all the way to the cutting board. Repeat to make four evenly spaced cuts around the onion.
- Continue slicing each section in half until you have about 16 slices. Be careful not to cut through the root.
- Turn the onion over and gently separate the outer pieces to make it bloom.
- Prepare the Breading:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Coat the Onion:
- Dip the onion into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the petals.
- Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the onion into the egg mixture, ensuring it gets between all the petals.
- Dip it back into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly.
- Place the coated onion in the freezer for about 15 minutes to help set the coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Onion:
- Spray the onion generously with cooking spray to help it crisp up.
- Place the onion in the air fryer basket, root-side down.
- Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until the onion is golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and spray with more cooking spray if needed.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.
- Serve with the dipping sauce.
Enjoy your Air Fryer Blooming Onion! It’s a great appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress.