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Crispy Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe with Easy Tangy Dipping Sauce

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A healthier, crispy blooming onion made in the air fryer with a tangy, creamy dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners, ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large yellow onion (4–5 inches in diameter)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100g)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature)
  • ½ cup milk (120ml), dairy or plant-based
  • Cooking spray
  • For the tangy dipping sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (120g)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel off the dry outer layers of the onion. Cut about ½ inch from the root end but leave the root intact. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board. Starting ½ inch from the root, slice downward to create 12-16 petals depending on onion size. Gently separate the petals with your fingers to form the bloom.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
  4. Carefully dip the onion into the egg mixture, coating every petal. Let excess drip off, then dredge the onion into the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat the egg and dry coating step once more for extra crunch.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place the coated onion into the air fryer basket, root side down. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Cook for 15-18 minutes, checking halfway through to spray again and ensure even crisping. The onion should be golden brown and crispy when done.
  7. While the onion cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste and chill until ready to serve.
  8. Transfer the cooked blooming onion to a serving plate and serve immediately with the tangy dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Use a sharp knife to avoid crushing petals. Press coating firmly for a sturdy crust. Spray oil evenly for best crispiness. Cook in batches if air fryer basket is small. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Substitute almond flour and gluten-free panko for gluten-free version; use plant-based milk for dairy-free; Greek yogurt can replace mayo in sauce for lighter option.

Nutrition

Keywords: blooming onion, air fryer, appetizer, crispy onion, tangy dipping sauce, easy recipe, party food, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/crispy-air-fryer-blooming-onion-recipe-with-easy-tangy-dipping-sauce/