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Bite-Sized Blooming Onions Recipe

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3.9 from 46 reviews

These Bite-Sized Blooming Onions are a crispy, golden appetizer that delivers all the flavor and fun of a traditional blooming onion in a convenient finger-food size. Coated in a seasoned flour and cornstarch mixture, dipped in a creamy buttermilk batter, and fried or air-fried to perfection, these onion bites are served with a zesty homemade horseradish dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, snacking, or game-day treats, they offer irresistible crunch and a delicious combination of savory and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

For the Onions:

  • 3–4 small yellow onions
  • ½ cup (0.25 lbs) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (0.25 lbs) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup (0.25 lbs) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
  • 1 large egg
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup (0.25 lbs) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon horseradish
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Onions: Peel and trim the ends off each onion. Cut each onion into quarters or sixths, keeping the root end just barely intact if possible. Soak the onion pieces in ice water for 30 minutes to help them bloom slightly and soften. Drain and pat dry carefully before coating.
  2. Mix the Coating: In one bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper for the dry coating. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined.
  3. Bread the Onion Bites: Dip each onion piece first into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly, then into the buttermilk and egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well for a crispy texture after cooking.
  4. Fry or Air-Fry: Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded onion pieces in small batches for 2–3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Air-Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the coated onion pieces with oil, arrange them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
  5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to blend all flavors and chill until ready to serve, enhancing the taste.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Plate the crispy blooming onion bites and serve alongside the chilled dipping sauce. Best enjoyed warm for maximum crunch and flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the dipping sauce.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Make sure the onion pieces are dry after soaking to help the coating stick better.
  • Frying yields an extra crispy texture, but air-frying is a healthier alternative with a similar crunch.
  • Use fresh horseradish for a sharper dip flavor or prepared horseradish for convenience.
  • Serve immediately after cooking for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/bite-sized-blooming-onions-recipe/