Air Fryer Blooming Onion is your ticket to enjoying a restaurant-quality appetizer in the comfort of your own home, with less oil and all the crunch. Imagine a large, sweet onion sliced into a beautiful blossom, coated in a perfectly seasoned breading, and air-fried to crispy, golden perfection. When you pull apart each petal, you’re treated to a deliciously tender onion with a satisfying crunch in every bite. This iconic appetizer is known for its impressive presentation and irresistible flavor, making it the perfect dish to share with friends and family at any gathering or as a fun treat for a cozy night in.

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The beauty of the Air Fryer Blooming Onion lies in its ability to deliver all the flavors and textures of the traditional deep-fried version without the mess and excess oil. The onion is first carefully cut to resemble a flower, then dipped in a seasoned flour mixture that gives it a flavorful, crispy crust. The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around the onion, ensuring it cooks evenly while maintaining a light, crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. The result is a healthier take on this classic dish, without sacrificing any of the taste or satisfaction.

What makes this Air Fryer Blooming Onion even more appealing is how easy it is to prepare, especially with the air fryer doing most of the work. It’s a great appetizer for parties, game days, or even as a side dish for a casual dinner. Pair it with a zesty dipping sauce like spicy mayo or ranch, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress both in flavor and presentation. Plus, with the air fryer, cleanup is a breeze, so you can enjoy your blooming onion without the hassle of dealing with oil splatters or greasy pans. Whether you’re a fan of the classic restaurant version or trying it for the first time, this Air Fryer Blooming Onion is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• • - Calories: 250
  • - Total Fat: 10g
  • - Saturated Fat: 2g
  • - Cholesterol: 60mg
  • - Sodium: 600mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • - Sugars: 6g
  • - Protein: 6g

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Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 1 large sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
• - 1 cup all-purpose flour
• - 2 teaspoons paprika
• - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• - 1 teaspoon onion powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• - 2 large eggs
• - 1/2 cup buttermilk
• - Cooking spray

For the Dipping Sauce:

• - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• - 2 tablespoons ketchup
• - 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• - Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onion:

   - Peel the onion and cut off the top (stem end), leaving the root end intact. Place the onion root-side up on a cutting board. Starting about 1/2 inch from the root, make a downward cut all the way to the bottom. Repeat to make 8 to 12 evenly spaced cuts around the onion. Carefully turn the onion over and gently separate the layers to resemble a blooming flower.

2. Prepare the Breading:

   - In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Onion:

   - In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Dip the onion into the egg mixture, ensuring all the petals are well coated. Then dredge the onion in the flour mixture, pressing the flour into the petals. Repeat the dipping and coating process to ensure a thick, even layer.

4. Air Fry the Onion:

   - Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded onion in the air fryer basket and spray it generously with cooking spray. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, or until the onion is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

5. Make the Dipping Sauce:

   - In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared horseradish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Serve:

   - Carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.

Storage Information:

- The Air Fryer Blooming Onion is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the onion back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s crispy again.

Enjoy your Air Fryer Blooming Onion with this tangy and flavorful dipping sauce. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, this dish combines crispy textures with bold, savory flavors that are sure to satisfy.