Air Fryer Blooming Onion Bites

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Mixing bowls (3 shallow bowls for the breading station)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Ingredients

For the Onion Bites:

• 2 large yellow onions (peeled and cut into bite-sized petals)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Zesty Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon creamy horseradish
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Onions

1. Peel the yellow onions and trim off the root and stem ends.
2. Cut each onion in half from top to bottom, then slice each half into wedges. Separate the layers into individual or double-layer bite-sized petals.
3. Soak the onion petals in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes to take away any harsh raw bite, then drain and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. In the first shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour , garlic powder , smoked paprika , salt , and black pepper .
2. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
3. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.

Step 3: Bread the Onion Petals

1. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Take a handful of dried onion petals and toss them in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip the floured petals into the egg wash, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Transfer them to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere tightly to each petal. Place the breaded pieces on a clean baking sheet or plate.

Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the onion bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not piled on top of each other so the air can circulate freely.
3. Spray the tops of the onion bites generously with cooking spray to help them turn golden brown.
4. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes , shaking the basket or flipping the bites halfway through. Spray any dry spots with a little extra oil if needed.
5. Once golden brown and ultra-crispy, remove them from the air fryer and repeat with the remaining batches.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. While the onion bites are cooking, whisk together all the dipping sauce ingredients ( mayonnaise , ketchup , creamy horseradish , paprika , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and cayenne pepper ) in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 310 kcal · Protein: 7g · Fat: 16g · Carbohydrates: 36g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 3g · Fiber: 3g · Sugar: 7g · Sodium: 580mg