Who doesn’t love a crispy, flavorful onion that’s been perfectly seasoned and fried until golden? Well, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you—an Air Fryer Blooming Onion. This version is not only healthier than the deep-fried classic, but it also maintains all the delicious crunch and flavor. It’s the perfect appetizer for a weekend gathering or a fun family dinner.
Cooking this dish in the air fryer makes it incredibly easy while giving you that crispy finish everyone loves. With a bit of patience for the prep work, you’ll be savoring every bite of this golden, blooming beauty. Whether you’re new to using an air fryer or a seasoned pro, this recipe will show you just how simple it is to recreate this restaurant-style dish at home.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Onion: The star of the dish! A large, sweet onion works best for blooming. It should be firm and free of any blemishes or soft spots. This onion will be sliced to reveal its natural layers, making it the perfect base for your crispy coating.
Flour: The flour creates the crispy outer layer that gives this dish its satisfying crunch. You’ll coat the onion in flour first before dipping it into the wet mixture. This helps the seasoning stick perfectly to every petal.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch adds to the crispiness of the onion and helps it stay crunchy throughout. It’s a key ingredient in creating that deep-fried texture without the deep frying.
Egg: The egg mixture binds everything together. It helps the breadcrumbs stick to the onion and keeps the layers in place, ensuring that you get that blooming effect when cooked.
Breadcrumbs: You want a crispy coating, and breadcrumbs are your best friend for that. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
Milk: Adding milk to the egg mixture helps thin it out and creates a smooth coating. You can substitute with plant-based milk if you prefer a dairy-free version.
Seasonings (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper): These seasonings bring flavor to every bite. Paprika gives a subtle smokiness, garlic powder adds depth, and salt and pepper bring balance to the dish.
Olive Oil Spray: While the air fryer gives you that crisp texture, a light mist of olive oil will ensure your onion turns golden brown and crispy. You can also use avocado oil spray as an alternative.
Ingredients List
- 1 large sweet onion
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Blooming Onion
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Start by peeling the outer layers of the onion. Slice off the top (the non-root end) and cut a small slice off the bottom to give it a flat base. Now, carefully cut the onion into segments from the top down, but don’t cut all the way through the root—you want the segments to stay attached at the base, forming a blooming shape.
Step 2: Make the Flour and Cornstarch Coating
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will coat the onion’s petals with a crispy exterior.
Step 3: Dip in Egg Mixture
In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk. Mix until smooth. Take the prepared onion and gently dip it into the egg mixture, making sure all the layers are coated evenly.
Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Next, dip the onion into the flour mixture, ensuring that all the petals are fully coated. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process for an even thicker coating.
Step 5: Air Fry the Onion
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the onion with olive oil and place it in the air fryer basket, flat side down. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the onion is golden brown and crispy. You can flip it halfway through the cooking time for an even crispiness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or a zesty aioli.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Choose the right onion: The larger the onion, the better the bloom. Look for large, firm onions to get the best results.
- Don’t rush the prep: Cutting the onion into perfect petals is key to achieving the blooming effect. Take your time to make sure the slices are even.
- Double-dip for extra crunch: For an even crispier onion, dip it in the egg and flour mixture twice before air frying.
- Use an air fryer rack: If you have a rack for your air fryer, use it to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Experiment with dipping sauces: This blooming onion goes well with a variety of sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
FAQs
Can I use a regular onion instead of a sweet onion?
Yes, you can use any large onion. A regular yellow onion might be a bit stronger in flavor, but it will still work well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh and crispy, you can prepare the onion and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternatives, and you’re good to go.
This Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a fun, healthier twist on the classic, giving you all the flavor without the deep-fried mess. It’s perfect for sharing or indulging in a personal treat. Enjoy!