This Air Fryer Blooming Onion gives you that crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned outer coating, with a tender onion center that’s packed with flavor. A healthier version of the classic deep-fried blooming onion, the air fryer cuts down on the oil but still delivers that irresistible crunch. Perfect for appetizers or as a fun snack, this dish is easy to make and tastes just as good as the restaurant version!

Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Olive oil spray (for crisping)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and slice off the top (not the root). Place the onion root-side down and slice it into 12-16 wedges, but make sure not to cut all the way through the root. The root will hold the onion together and help it “bloom.” Gently separate the onion petals to create a blooming effect.
  2. Prepare the Flour Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Prepare the Wet Mix: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth.
  4. Coat the Onion: First, dip the blooming onion in the flour mixture, making sure to coat each petal thoroughly. Then, dip it in the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Return it to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing gently to ensure it sticks to all the onion petals.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Cook the Onion: Lightly spray the onion with olive oil to help it crisp up. Place the coated onion in the air fryer basket, root-side down, ensuring it’s in a single layer (you may need to trim the edges of the onion if it’s too big for your air fryer basket). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the onion is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and serve immediately with a side of dipping sauce like spicy ranch or a tangy cocktail sauce.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 1/4 of the onion):

  • Calories: 120-150 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
    • Sugars: 5g
  • Fat: 4g
    • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 300mg (varies with seasoning)

This Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a fun and flavorful appetizer that’s much lighter than the deep-fried version but just as delicious. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a treat during movie night!