air fried blooming onion recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best air fried blooming onion recipe

I love this air fried blooming onion recipe because it gives you all the crunch and flavor of the deep fried version without all the extra oil. My kids go crazy for it, and I feel good serving it since it is lighter and healthier. It is perfect for game day, a family dinner side, or just a fun snack that everyone can share. The air fryer makes the onion petals perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the seasoning blend is just right. You will not miss the deep fryer at all.

Air Fried Blooming Onion

4.7 from 1656 votes

A crispy and flavorful blooming onion made in the air fryer with a simple seasoned coating. Served with a zesty dipping sauce, this appetizer is a crowd pleaser and much healthier than the traditional fried version.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Onion

1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia)
1 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
Cooking spray

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cut about 1/2 inch off the top of the onion and peel off the skin. Place the onion cut side down on a cutting board. Starting about 1/2 inch from the root, make downward cuts all around the onion to create petals. Be careful not to cut through the root.
2Gently separate the petals with your fingers. The onion should open up like a flower.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
4In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
5Dip the onion into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the petals. Shake off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture for a second coating. Make sure the coating gets between the petals.
6Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
7Spray the coated onion generously with cooking spray. Place it in the air fryer basket, root side down.
8Air fry for 15 minutes. Then carefully flip the onion over and spray again with cooking spray. Air fry for another 10 minutes, or until the petals are golden brown and crispy.
9While the onion cooks, make the dipping sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl.
10Carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer. Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve with the dipping sauce.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Medium mixing bowl
Small bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, make sure to spray the onion well with cooking spray. You can also add a pinch of onion powder to the flour mixture for more flavor.

Watch Video Of How Air Fried Blooming Onion Works

This air fried blooming onion is a fantastic recipe that always gets rave reviews at my house. It is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight snack to a fun addition to a family gathering. I love that it is healthier than the original, but no one ever notices the difference because it tastes just as good.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fried Blooming Onion

1. Do I need to soak the onion before air frying?

No, you do not need to soak it. Just cut and coat it directly. Soaking can make the onion too watery and affect the crispiness.

2. Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes, but sweet onions like Vidalia work best because they are mild and become tender when cooked. Yellow or white onions will also work but will have a stronger flavor.

3. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Make sure the onion is dry before coating. Use a generous amount of cooking spray and do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Gently handle the onion when flipping it.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes, simply substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten free all purpose flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This will help restore the crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make the onion soggy.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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