Blooming onions are a popular appetizer, loved for their crispy, flavorful petals and savory dipping sauces. Traditionally deep-fried, these delectable treats can be made healthier using an air fryer, which reduces the amount of oil needed while still delivering that irresistible crunch. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a fun side dish, these air fryer crispy mini blooming onions are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 4 small onions (about 2-3 inches in diameter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
For the dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions:
- Peel the onions and cut off the top (stem end), leaving the root end intact.
- Carefully cut the onions into wedges, slicing from the top down toward the root but not cutting all the way through. You want the onion to stay together at the base.
- Gently separate the onion layers to create the blooming effect.
- Make the Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
- Coat the Onions:
- Dip each onion into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the layers.
- Shake off any excess flour, then dip the onion into the egg mixture, ensuring it gets into all the layers.
- Finally, coat the onion with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Onions:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the coated onions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Lightly spray the tops of the onions with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and spray with more cooking spray if needed.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- While the onions are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Mix well until smooth and set aside.
- Serve:
- Once the onions are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.
Conclusion
Air fryer crispy mini blooming onions are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer, offering the same satisfying crunch and flavor without the excess oil. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these mini blooming onions are a great addition to any gathering. Enjoy them hot and fresh from the air fryer, dipped in a tangy, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the crispy onion petals. Your guests will be impressed by this healthier, delicious version of a beloved favorite!