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Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion Petals

Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion Petals

Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion Petals are a healthier, light, and indulgent snack or appetizer made by air frying seasoned onion petals coated in a flavorful dry and wet batter. This recipe delivers golden, crunchy petals with a perfect texture and customizable flavor options, making it an easy, versatile, and crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large sweet onion (e.g., Vidalia or Walla Walla), sliced into 12-16 petals
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup buttermilk or milk (or plant-based milk substitute)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray or oil mister

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and carefully slice it into 12-16 even petals, leaving the root end intact so the petals stay connected, ensuring uniform cooking and easy dipping.
  2. Create the Wet Batter: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk or milk with a pinch of salt and pepper to create a flavorful soaking base that helps the dry coating adhere to the onion petals.
  3. Mix the Dry Coating: In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then fold in the panko breadcrumbs to build a textured and crispy crust.
  4. Coat the Onion Petals: Dip each petal first into the wet batter, ensuring it is fully soaked, then dredge thoroughly in the flour and breadcrumb mixture so each petal is evenly coated for consistent crunch.
  5. Preheat and Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the coated petals in a single layer in the basket, spray lightly with cooking oil, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked onion petals to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Make sure onion petals are dry before coating to help the batter stick properly.
  • Air fry in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crispiness.
  • Lightly spray petals with cooking oil halfway through cooking to promote browning without excess oil.
  • Cut petals evenly for consistent cooking and avoid undercooked or burnt pieces.
  • Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, blooming onion, crispy onion petals, appetizer, snack, healthier fried snack, gluten-free option