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Easy Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion photo

Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion

This Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a healthier twist on a classic appetizer! Golden, crunchy, and perfect for sharing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Onion:
  • 2 large Sweet Onions
For the Coating:
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Ranch Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 1 large Egg
  • 2 tablespoons Melted Butter
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
  • as needed Oil Spray for spritzing
  • as desired Dipping Sauce such as ranch or spicy mayo

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spray Bottle

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by peeling the two large sweet onions. Cut off the top of each onion, leaving the root intact. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board, and slice it into petals. Make cuts around the onion, about 1/4 inch apart, going down about three-quarters of the way to the root. Gently pull apart the petals to create the blooming effect.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, Ranch powder, salt, chili powder, and black pepper. In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter.
  3. Dip each onion into the flour mixture, ensuring it's thoroughly coated. Then, dip it into the milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off before returning it to the flour mixture for a final coating. Ensure that the onion is well coated for maximum crunch.
  4. Place the coated onion on a plate or baking sheet. Sprinkle the Panko bread crumbs generously over the onion, pressing them down gently to adhere. Lightly spritz the onion with oil spray to enhance the crisping process during cooking.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once heated, place the blooming onion in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the onion is golden brown and crispy. You may want to check halfway through and spritz with a bit more oil for an extra crunch.
  6. Once cooked, carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a minute before serving with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of your Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion!

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
  • Experiment with different types of onions for varied flavors.
  • This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.