How to Make a Blooming Onion

A Blooming Onion is a crispy, golden-brown appetizer that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. With its beautiful “flower” presentation and savory flavor, this dish is a showstopper at parties or a cozy night in. Below, you’ll find two ways to make it: the classic deep-fried version and a healthier air fryer alternative.

Ingredients (for both versions)

• 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or yellow)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for air fryer)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare the Onion

1. Trim the Onion: Cut about ½ inch off the top of the onion and peel the skin. Leave the root intact.
2. Cut into Petals: Place the onion root side down. Make four cuts downward, stopping about ½ inch from the root. Then cut each section again to create 12–16 “petals.”
3. Loosen the Layers: Gently separate the onion petals to create the blooming effect.

Deep-Fried Blooming Onion

1. Make the Batter: In one bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs. In another, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Onion: Dip the onion in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back in the flour. Make sure all petals are coated.
3. Heat Oil: Fill a deep pot or fryer with oil to about 3 inches deep. Heat to 375°F (190°C).
4. Fry the Onion: Carefully place the onion cut side down in the oil. Fry for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve: Place the Blooming Onion on a plate, serve with dipping sauce, and enjoy hot.

Air-Fried Blooming Onion

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Coat the Onion: Prepare the onion the same way as above, coating it in the flour mixture, then egg mixture, and again in flour.
3. Spray with Oil: Generously spray the coated onion with cooking spray.
4. Cook: Place the onion in the air fryer basket, cut side up, and cook for 18–20 minutes, checking halfway and spraying more oil for crispiness.
5. Serve: Once golden and crispy, serve with dipping sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Blooming Onion

• Chill the Onion: Placing the cut onion in cold water for 30 minutes helps it open up more.
• Season Well: Adjust spice levels to your taste. Add cayenne for heat or more paprika for smokiness.
• Serve Immediately: Blooming Onions are best enjoyed fresh and hot for maximum crunch.