Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Craving a crunchy and flavorful appetizer that’s also easy to make at home? Look no further than this Air Fryer Blooming Onion recipe! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 large sweet onion

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Cooking spray

For the Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon horseradish

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

Prepare the Onion:

Cut off the top and peel the onion. Make vertical cuts from top to bottom, stopping 1/4 inch from the base to create petals.

Prepare the Coating:

In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Beat eggs in another bowl.

Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Coat the Onion:

Dip the onion in the flour mixture, ensuring petals are coated.

Shake off excess flour, then dip in beaten eggs, covering all petals.

Finally, coat the onion in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Air Fry:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly spray onion with cooking spray.

Place onion in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes.

Finish:

Carefully flip the onion and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Make Dipping Sauce:

Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Serve:

Transfer the cooked blooming onion to a plate.

Serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce.

Serving Tips:

Presentation Matters: Place your golden-brown blooming onion on a decorative platter or cutting board. Its intricate petals make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Dipping Delights: Serve alongside the prepared dipping sauce in a small bowl or ramekin. The tangy flavors of the sauce complement the crispy exterior of the onion perfectly.

Garnish Creatively: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or chives over the blooming onion for a pop of color and freshness. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbal flavor.

Serve Immediately: For the ultimate enjoyment, serve the air fryer blooming onion hot and fresh. The crispy texture is best experienced right after cooking.

Pairing Suggestions: Consider pairing your blooming onion with a refreshing beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer. These drinks help balance the richness of the dish.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the cooled blooming onion in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 1-2 days for the best quality.

Reheating: To reheat, place the leftover blooming onion in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. This helps restore its original texture.

Avoid Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the onion soggy. The air fryer ensures that the crispy exterior is maintained.

Dipping Sauce Storage: Store any leftover dipping sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving again to blend the flavors.

Freezing Not Recommended: Due to its delicate texture, freezing the blooming onion is not recommended as it will lose its crispiness upon thawing and reheating.

Related Recipes:

• Blooming Quesadilla Ring
• French Onion Beef and Noodles
• Air Fryer Roast Potatoes

FAQs:

Can I use a regular onion instead of a sweet onion

? Yes, you can use a regular yellow or white onion instead of a sweet onion for this recipe. The flavor may vary slightly, but the cooking method and preparation steps remain the same.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute. However, panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light and crispy texture.

How can I make the blooming onion gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this recipe, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well. Double-check all seasonings and the dipping sauce ingredients to confirm they are gluten-free.

Can I make the blooming onion ahead of time for a party?

While it’s best to serve the blooming onion immediately after cooking for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the onion up to the point of breading it in advance. Store the pre-breaded onion in the refrigerator on a tray lined with parchment paper, covered loosely with plastic wrap, for up to a few hours before air frying. Coat with cooking spray just before air frying to ensure it remains crispy.

Conclusion:

This air fryer blooming onion recipe provides a healthier twist on a classic favorite, making it perfect for any occasion from game nights to family gatherings. Enjoy the crunchy goodness without the guilt of deep frying—your taste buds will thank you!

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