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Crispy air fryer blooming onion served with dipping sauce

Air Fryer Blooming Onion

A healthier twist on the classic blooming onion, featuring a crunchy, flavorful onion flower that's perfect for dipping.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

Onion Preparation

  • 1 large sweet onion Choose varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla for best flavor.

Breading Mixture

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Add more for extra spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with almond or oat milk.

Coating

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Use flavored breadcrumbs for added taste.
  • to taste cooking spray For greasing and extra crispiness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Slice the onion by cutting about 1 inch from the top and remove the outer skin. Place the onion cut-side down, then make 12-16 vertical cuts toward the base, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  • Soak the onion in a mixture of buttermilk for about 1 hour to help soften it.

Breading

  • In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
  • After soaking, remove excess buttermilk from the onion. Place it upside down in the flour mixture, gently coating it.
  • Carefully turn the onion upright and shake off excess flour.
  • Dip the onion again in buttermilk, then coat it in breadcrumbs, pressing slightly to ensure they stick.

Cooking

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly spray the onion with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
  • Place the onion in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not squished.
  • Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, checking halfway for even coloring.
  • Remove the blooming onion from the fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.

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Notes

Experiment with different seasoning blends for variety. Serve with various dipping sauces for a fun experience.
Keyword Air Fryer Recipes, Blooming Onion, Crispy Onion, Healthy Snacks