An air fryer blooming onion

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Step 1: Prepare the Onion

Start by cutting the top off the onion and peeling away the outer skin. Keep the root end intact, as this will help hold the onion together when you “bloom” it.

Place the onion with the root side down. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the onion into petals by making four even cuts vertically (from top to bottom) around the onion, about ½ inch apart. Then, make additional cuts in between each of the four segments, creating a fan-like shape. Gently pull apart the petals of the onion to create the blooming effect.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until smooth.

In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, you can use Panko breadcrumbs, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.

Step 3: Coat the Onion

Dip the prepared onion into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use a spoon to gently sprinkle some of the flour mixture between the onion petals for full coverage. Then, dip the onion into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, dip the onion into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick to the onion petals. Make sure the onion is thoroughly coated.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the air fryer is hot and ready to cook the onion, helping it crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Air Fry the Blooming Onion

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated blooming onion in the air fryer basket, with the petals facing up. You may need to cut the onion slightly or trim the edges to fit it into your air fryer, depending on the size.

Spray the onion lightly with cooking spray to help it crisp up during cooking. Air fry the blooming onion at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the onion petals are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip the onion to ensure even cooking. You can also spray the top with a bit more cooking spray at this point for added crispiness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the blooming onion is perfectly crispy, carefully remove it from the air fryer and allow it to cool slightly before serving. You can place it on a serving platter and gently separate the petals for a more dramatic presentation.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch or spicy ranch is a classic pairing, but you can also try barbecue sauce, garlic aioli, or a zesty honey mustard sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Blooming Onion

1. Choose a Large Onion: A large onion with multiple layers will give you the best results when blooming. Vidalia onions or yellow onions are ideal because they’re sweet and tender.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: If you want extra crunch and texture, opt for Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They’ll create a more crispy, airy crust around the onion.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: If you’re making more than one blooming onion, cook them in batches. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy texture.
4. Adjust the Cooking Time: Depending on the size of the onion and the air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Keep an eye on the onion to make sure it doesn’t overcook or burn.
5. Use Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.

Why You Should Try Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Air Fryer Blooming Onion is the perfect way to enjoy this beloved appetizer without all the oil and mess of deep frying. The air fryer delivers a crispy, crunchy coating while keeping the inside of the onion tender and flavorful. It’s a great option for game day snacks, parties, or just when you’re craving something indulgent with a lot less guilt.

Not only is this blooming onion healthier, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious appetizer that rivals any restaurant’s version.

So, whether you’re a blooming onion fan or trying it for the first time, the air fryer blooming onion is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!