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Bite-Sized Blooming Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 65 reviews

These Bite-Sized Blooming Onions are crispy, golden onion petals coated in a flavorful seasoned batter and fried to perfection. Served with a zesty, creamy dipping sauce, they make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s crunchy on the outside and tender inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Essential Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet onions – Firm, smooth-skinned onions offer the best flavor and texture.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the coating.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a touch of smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For savory depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the onion taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds a mild heat; adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out all the flavors.
  • 1 cup buttermilk – Helps the coating stick and tenderizes the onions.
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs – Provides a crisp, golden finish.
  • Vegetable oil – For deep frying to crispy perfection.

Optional Add-Ons for Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the onions: Peel the onions and carefully slice them into bite-sized petals or wedges, ensuring each piece separates easily for even coating and frying.
  2. Prepare the coating: In one bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to form the seasoned flour mixture. In a second bowl, pour the buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs for the final coating.
  3. Coat the onions: Dip each onion petal first into the seasoned flour mixture to lightly dust it. Then submerge it in the buttermilk to moisten. Finally, coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy crust once fried.
  4. Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent heat for even frying.
  5. Fry the onions: Fry the coated onion petals in batches, carefully lowering them into the hot oil. Cook each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the coating turns golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  6. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish if using, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and flavorful. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve: Plate the crispy blooming onion bites alongside the zesty dipping sauce and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred heat level.
  • Ensure oil temperature is steady at 350°F for best frying results—too hot and the coating burns; too cool and it becomes soggy.
  • Use firm sweet onions for optimal sweetness and texture.
  • The dipping sauce is optional but highly recommended to complement the crispy onion bites.
  • Drain fried onions well on paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Keywords: blooming onions, fried onion petals, appetizer, crispy onions, deep fried onions, dipping sauce, snack

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/bite-sized-blooming-onions-recipe/