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Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion served with dipping sauce

Air Fryer Blooming Onion

A healthier take on the classic blooming onion, this air fryer version is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for parties or a fun snack at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large large onion Use Vidalia or sweet onions for best results.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup milk Can substitute with lactose-free alternative.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko works best.
  • 1 spray cooking spray For coating the onion.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Peel the onion and cut off the top, leaving the root intact.
  • Create petal-like cuts by slicing downwards at an angle from the center to the outer edge, about 12-16 times. Be careful not to cut all the way through the root.

Coating

  • In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the dry coating mix.
  • In a separate bowl, pour the milk (you can season it with a pinch of the spice mix for more flavor).
  • Dip the onion into the milk mixture, ensuring it gets fully coated, then let any excess liquid drip off.
  • Coat the onion with the flour mixture, shake off excess flour, return it to the milk for a second coat, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the onion.

Cooking

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
  • Place the coated onion in the air fryer basket, root side down, and spray the top with more cooking spray.
  • Cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the onion is golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Carefully remove the blooming onion and let it cool slightly before serving.

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Notes

Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or a yogurt-lemon sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor. Great as an appetizer for gatherings.
Keyword Air Fryer, appetizer, blooming onion, Easy Recipe, Healthy Snack