Blooming Onion

This iconic Blooming Onion features crispy, golden-brown petals and a flavorful, tender interior. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, it’s the ultimate appetizer for parties, game days, or any occasion that calls for indulgence!

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Yield

Serves 4–6

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Ingredients

For the Onion

• 1 large sweet onion (e.g., Vidalia)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onion

1. Peel the onion and trim the root end slightly to create a flat base, leaving the root intact to hold the onion together.
2. Place the onion root-side down on a cutting board. Starting about 1/2 inch from the root, slice downward to create 12–16 "petals." Rotate the onion slightly between each cut for even spacing.
3. Gently separate the onion layers to create a blooming effect.

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Step 2: Make the Dredging Station

1. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk and beaten eggs.

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Step 3: Coat the Onion

1. Dip the onion into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all the petals. Shake off excess.
2. Submerge the onion into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring every part is coated.
3. Return the onion to the flour mixture and coat again, pressing lightly to adhere the flour to all surfaces.

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Step 4: Fry the Onion

1. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to fully submerge the onion. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully lower the onion into the hot oil, root-side up, using a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
3. Fry for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

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Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Place the blooming onion on a serving plate and serve warm with the dipping sauce in the center or on the side.

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Kitchen Tips

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when preparing the onion.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level in both the onion and sauce.

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This Blooming Onion is crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly fun to eat—perfect for sharing with friends and family!