Description
These Bite-Sized Blooming Onions are a fun, crunchy twist on the classic appetizer. Perfect for parties or game day, they’re crispy, flavorful, and served with a zesty dipping sauce that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions – Firm, smooth-skinned onions offer the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the coating.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a touch of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the onion taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds a mild heat; adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out all the flavors.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Helps the coating stick and tenderizes the onions.
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs – Provides a crisp, golden finish.
- Vegetable oil – For deep frying to crispy perfection.
Optional Add-Ons for Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the onions: Peel and slice the onions into bite-sized petals or wedges.
- Prepare the coating: In one bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. In a second bowl, pour the buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the onions: Dip each onion piece into the flour mixture, then buttermilk, then breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the onions: Fry the coated onion petals in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the dipping sauce: Mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy blooming onion bites with the zesty dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Try different seasonings like Cajun spice or Italian herbs for flavor variations.
- Use an air fryer for a lighter version — spray with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
- These are best served hot and fresh for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (including sauce)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: bite-sized blooming onions, blooming onion bites, onion appetizer, fried onions, crispy onion snacks, party food, dipping sauce