Bite-Sized Blooming Onions (Print-Friendly Version)
Crispy, golden onion bites with a zesty sauce—ideal for parties, snacks, or game days. Irresistibly crunchy every time.
# What You’ll Need to Make This:
→ Essential Ingredients
01 -
2 large sweet onions, peeled and sliced into bite-sized petals
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
1 teaspoon paprika
04 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
07 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
08 -
1 cup buttermilk
09 -
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
10 -
Vegetable oil, for deep frying
→ Optional Dipping Sauce
11 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
12 -
2 tablespoons ketchup
13 -
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
14 -
1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
15 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
17 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
# How to Prepare:
01 -
Peel the onions and cut them into bite-sized petals or wedges, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
02 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow bowl. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
03 -
Working in batches, dredge each onion piece in the seasoned flour, dip into buttermilk, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully covered at every stage.
04 -
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 175°C (350°F).
05 -
Fry coated onion petals in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning as needed, until crisp and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
06 -
Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish if using, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste.
07 -
Present the crispy onion bites hot with the prepared dipping sauce alongside.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Experiment with additional seasonings such as Cajun spice blends or Italian herbs for varied flavor profiles.
02 -
To reduce oil, use an air fryer: spray coated petals with oil and air fry at 200°C for 10 to 12 minutes.
03 -
Serve immediately for optimal crispiness.