why make this recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a fun and tasty appetizer that impresses everyone. Instead of deep-frying, using an air fryer makes this dish healthier while still being crispy and delicious. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a special treat at home. Plus, the homemade dipping sauce adds an extra kick that complements the flavors of the onion.

how to make Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Ingredients:

1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or Walla Walla recommended)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 large eggs
1 cup milk (Whole milk or 2% works great)
1 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking oil spray (Avocado or canola oil spray works perfectly)

For the dipping sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon creamy horseradish
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pinch salt

Directions:

Slice about ½ inch off the top of the onion and peel off the outer skin. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board.
Starting about ½ inch away from the root, make about 16 evenly spaced downward cuts, being careful not to slice all the way through the root. Turn the onion over and gently separate the petals.
In a large, wide bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
In a second large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and water until smooth.
Dredge the onion first in the flour mixture, using a spoon to ensure it’s fully coated between all the petals. Shake off any excess.
Next, submerge the floured onion in the egg wash, making sure every surface is wet. Let the excess drip off.
Finally, place the onion back into the flour mixture for a final, thorough coat, gently pressing the flour into all the nooks and crannies.
Place the fully coated onion in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. This helps the coating set and stick.
While the onion chills, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the chilled onion from the fridge. Generously coat the entire onion with cooking oil spray, paying extra attention to any dry, floury spots.
Using a foil sling, carefully lower the onion, cut-side up, into the air fryer basket.
Cook for 25 minutes. For maximum crispiness, pull the basket out and spray the onion with more oil 2-3 times during cooking (around the 10-minute and 20-minute marks).
While the onion cooks, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, creamy horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. For the best flavor, cover and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve the blooming onion hot from the air fryer with the chilled dipping sauce.

how to serve Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Serve the Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion straight from the air fryer, accompanied by the chilled dipping sauce. This dish is great as an appetizer or snack. You can place it on a large platter, allowing everyone to pull apart their own onion petals and dip them in the sauce.

how to store Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the onion in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.

tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Choose a sweet onion for the best flavor. A larger onion also makes for a more impressive presentation.
Make sure to coat the onion thoroughly in the flour mixture and egg wash for a crispy texture.
Don’t skip the chilling time—this step helps the coating stick, ensuring a crunchier end result.
Experiment with different spices in the flour mixture for unique flavors.

variation

You can try adding other spices to the flour mixture, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning, for a different twist. If you want more heat, increase the cayenne pepper. Some people enjoy adding shredded cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use other types of onions, but sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are recommended for the best taste.

Can I make the dipping sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dipping sauce a few hours ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.

Why is my blooming onion not crispy?
Ensure you coat the onion well with the flour mixture and egg wash. Also, spray enough cooking oil on it before and during cooking to help it become crispy.