Blooming Onion Recipe

Onion: The star of the dish, a large onion is cut into a blooming shape to create the signature look.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the onion, giving it a crispy texture when fried.

Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet flavor and a hint of color to the coating.

Garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic taste that complements the onion.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Milk: Helps the flour mixture adhere to the onion.

Eggs: Combined with the milk to create a batter that binds the flour to the onion.

Oil: Used for frying the onion until it reaches a golden-brown perfection.

When cutting the onion into a blooming shape, make sure to leave the root intact. This will help keep the layers together during the frying process. Start by peeling the onion, then place it root side up. Make four cuts downward, about ½ inch from the root, to create four sections. Continue making cuts between each section until you have 16 evenly spaced cuts. Gently separate the layers to create the blooming effect.

• large onion - Substitute with sweet onion: Sweet onions have a milder flavor and are less pungent, making them a good alternative for a blooming onion.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to achieve a similar texture and coating.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor which can enhance the taste of the blooming onion.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: If you want to maintain a similar flavor profile, onion powder can be used, though it will slightly alter the taste.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute and may add a slightly different mineral flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used if you prefer a less pungent taste.

• milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the onion, making it a great alternative.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: For a vegan option, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water per egg) can be used to bind the coating.

• oil for frying - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it an excellent choice for frying.

• Allow the blooming onion to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the onion soggy.
• Place the onion in an airtight container. If you don't have one large enough, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store the container or wrapped blooming onion in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the blooming onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• For freezing, first, flash freeze the blooming onion by placing it on a baking sheet and putting it in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents it from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the blooming onion to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date.
• When ready to eat, do not thaw. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the frozen blooming onion for 20-25 minutes or until hot and crispy.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the blooming onion soggy.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the blooming onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until it is heated through and crispy.

• Use an air fryer for a quick and efficient method. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the blooming onion in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't burn.

• For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the blooming onion in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even reheating.

• If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used, though it may not retain the crispiness. Place the blooming onion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking for desired warmth.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the blooming onion on the rack or a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes until it is warmed through and crispy.

• Knife: To cut the onion into a blooming shape.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the onion.

• Mixing bowl: To mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Mixing bowl: To whisk the milk and eggs together.

• Whisk: To combine the milk and eggs smoothly.

• Tongs: To dip the onion in the milk mixture and coat it with the flour mixture.

• Deep fryer: To fry the onion until golden brown.

• Paper towels: To drain excess oil from the fried onion.

• Plate: To serve the blooming onion with dipping sauce.

Pre-cut the onion: Slice the onion into a blooming shape the night before and store it in the fridge.

Prepare the coating mix: Mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container.

Use a deep fryer: A deep fryer heats oil quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, speeding up the frying process.

Batch the dipping station: Set up the milk and egg mixture and the flour mixture side by side for a streamlined dipping process.

Make the dipping sauce ahead: Prepare your favorite dipping sauce in advance and store it in the fridge.