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Blooming Onion Recipe

Crispy Homemade Blooming Onion

A delicious, golden, deep-fried onion cut to bloom like a flower. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a creamy dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer for parties or family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Onion:
  • 1 large sweet onion Vidalia or Walla Walla
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Dipping Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tsp horseradish
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large knife
  • Cutting board
  • Deep fryer or large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and leave the root intact. Slice off the top ½ inch. Make 12–16 vertical cuts from top to root without cutting through the root. Gently spread the petals outward to form a flower.
  2. Make the Batter: In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
  3. Coat the Onion: Dip the onion into the egg mixture, making sure all petals are coated. Then coat it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to stick. For extra crunch, repeat with eggs and flour or breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the Onion: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the onion root-side up in the hot oil. Fry for 8–10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes for best flavor.
  6. Serve: Place the onion on a serving plate and put the dipping sauce in the center. Enjoy crispy petals with creamy sauce!

Notes

  • Keep the root intact to hold petals together.
  • Maintain oil temperature for perfect crispiness.
  • For a healthier version, bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.
  • Adjust spice level in batter and sauce to taste.
  • Best eaten immediately, but can be reheated in the oven.
Blooming Onion Recipe