Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a fun and tasty appetizer that impresses anyone at your table. It’s crispy, flavorful, and easy to make without deep frying. Using an air fryer reduces the oil and makes it a healthier option, while still giving you a delicious and crunchy snack. Perfect for parties or as a side dish, this blooming onion is sure to be a hit!

How to Make Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Ingredients

• 1 large onion
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Cut the top off the onion and peel it. Slice the onion downwards to create petals but don’t cut all the way through.
2. Soak the onion in buttermilk for an hour to help it become crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove the onion from the buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it gets into all the layers.
5. Spray the onion generously with cooking spray and place it in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, checking for crispiness.
7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Serve your Air Fryer Blooming Onion hot and crispy, along with a tasty dipping sauce. Popular choices include ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect as an appetizer at parties or as a fun side with burgers.

How to Store Air Fryer Blooming Onion

If you have any leftovers, store your blooming onion in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to eat it within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. When ready to eat again, reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Blooming Onion

• Choose a large, firm onion for better petals and more flavor.
• Make sure to soak the onion in buttermilk fully to enhance the crunch.
• Use cooking spray liberally for a crispy finish during air frying.
• Experiment with different spices in the flour mix for unique flavors.

Variation

You can make a cheesy version by adding grated cheese into the flour mixture or sprinkling it on top of the onion before air frying. You can also switch up the spices to match your favorite flavors.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of onion?
A: Yes, while a large onion works best, you can use other types like a sweet onion for a milder taste.

Q: Can I prepare the onion ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cut and soak the onion in buttermilk a few hours ahead of cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make your own buttermilk by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes.