Make Bloomin' Onions In Your Air Fryer

If you're craving a crispy, juicy, and healthier version of the famous Blooming Onion, then making it in an air fryer is the way to go! This fun and popular appetizer, which was originally created at Outback Steakhouse, is usually deep-fried and can be quite messy and challenging to make at home. However, with an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispness without the guilt and hassle of deep-frying. The key to success lies in two important steps: cutting the onion into the blossom shape and properly breading it.

To cut the onion, start by slicing off a flat surface from the top (stem end) and a small portion from the root end, just enough for the onion to sit flat. Then, with the onion placed stem side down, make four evenly spaced cuts, staying about half an inch away from the root. Next, make three additional cuts in each of the four sections to create 16 evenly spaced cuts total. Turn the onion over and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the petals to relax and then gently separate them to create a full bloom.

For breading, you'll need flour, eggs, milk, and seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. You'll dip the onion in the flour mixture, then in an egg wash, and finally back in the flour mixture. Make sure to get the flour and egg wash into all the nooks and crannies of the onion. Generously spray the onion with cooking oil, and then it's ready for the air fryer! Cook at around 350°F for about 20 minutes, and you'll have a mouth-watering, restaurant-quality appetizer to enjoy. Don't forget to serve it with a delicious dipping sauce!

Choosing the right onion

First, look for a large onion, preferably a sweet variety such as Vidalia. Sweet onions have a milder flavour that complements the batter without overpowering it. They also contain fewer sulphur compounds, so they are less likely to make you cry during the cutting process! Aim for an onion that weighs around 1lb/500g.

Second, consider the colour. While yellow and white onions can be used, their strong flavour might be too overpowering for some palates. If you do choose a yellow or white onion, make sure it is big enough to be cut into many petals.

Third, when shopping for onions, look for those that are firm and have smooth, dry skins. Avoid onions with soft spots or sprouting roots, as these are signs of deterioration. Also, check that the onion's papery skin is not flaky or loose, which could indicate that the onion is past its prime.

Finally, store your onions properly to ensure they stay fresh until you are ready to use them. Onions should be kept in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, preferably in a single layer, to prevent them from sprouting or developing mould.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect onion for your bloomin' onion creation!

Cutting the onion

Place the onion stem side down on the countertop and make four slices down the onion at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock, but don't cut through the root. Then, make three slices down the onion between each of the original four slices, but again, don't cut through the root.

If you've been successful, when you turn the onion over, the onion will open up, but not fall apart because the root will still be intact. Use your fingers to help separate all the petals of the onion gently.

It is important to note that slicing the onion is dangerous, so make sure you are doing it on a flat surface, such as a cutting board, for stability.

Battering the onion

Place the onion in the bowl with the flour mixture, cut-side up. Use your fingers or a spoon to coat the onion with the flour, making sure to get flour between the onion petals. Turn the onion over and pat off the excess flour, then transfer it to the empty bowl.

Now, it's time to add the egg mixture. Pour the egg mixture over the onion and coat it evenly, making sure to get in between the petals. Let the onion sit in the mixture for a few minutes, then remove it and allow the excess to drip off.

Finally, it's back to the flour mixture for a second coat. Sprinkle the flour over the onion, again ensuring that all the petals are coated. Gently tap off any excess flour, and your onion is now ready for the air fryer!

Air-frying the onion

Firstly, preheat your air fryer. Most recipes recommend preheating to between 300°F and 375°F for around 10 minutes. This step is important and should not be skipped.

While the air fryer is preheating, prepare the onion for frying by spraying it generously with cooking oil or vegetable oil. Be sure to coat all the flour mixture with oil and check between the petals to ensure even coverage. You can also spritz additional oil onto any spots that still have visible flour. This step is crucial as it helps the onion to brown and crisp properly during cooking.

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to place the onion inside. Cut-side up, transfer the onion into the air fryer basket, preferably using a sling made of aluminium foil for easy removal after cooking.

Now, it's time to air-fry! Cook the onion at your desired temperature for around 20-25 minutes. During the cooking process, open the air fryer at least once and spritz or spray the onion with more cooking oil to ensure even browning and crisping.

After the allotted time, check the onion to see if it's done. It should be golden brown and starting to darken slightly at the tips of the petals. If it needs more time, put it back in for a few more minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure it doesn't burn.

Finally, when the onion is cooked to perfection, use the aluminium foil sling to carefully lift it out of the air fryer basket. Your blooming onion is now ready to be served! Enjoy the crispy, juicy treat as an appetizer or side dish.

Making the sauce

While the onion is air-frying, you can make the sauce or dip. It's very easy and straightforward, and you probably already have all the ingredients in your kitchen. You can whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.

If you want to get creative, you can experiment with different spices and ingredients to make the sauce your own. For example, you could try adding some Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, or even a little bit of hot sauce if you like it spicy.

The sauce should be chilled until the blooming onion is ready to serve. This will help to thicken the sauce and enhance the flavours. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve the blooming onion.

This sauce is perfect for dipping your blooming onion, but it's also great for french fries, onion rings, chicken, or anything else you want to dunk! It's a versatile sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Frequently asked questions