Description
This recipe creates crispy mini blooming onions using an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying. Perfect as a crunchy appetizer or side, these bite-sized onions are coated in seasoned flour, dipped in an egg wash, and then breaded with panko and Parmesan cheese. Served with a tangy, creamy dipping sauce, they make a delightful snack or party treat in just under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Onion and Coating
- 4 small onions (such as sweet or yellow onions)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional
- Cooking spray (for air fryer)
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the small onions and carefully slice each onion horizontally into thin, even layers from the top almost to the root end, so the layers spread out like a blooming flower.
- Make the Flour Mixture: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned flour mixture.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk until fully combined.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly.
- Coat the Onions: Dip each blooming onion first into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to get in between the layers, then into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Ensure the breadcrumbs get into all the layers for maximum crispness.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Onions: Place the coated onions in the air fryer basket, spray the tops lightly with cooking spray, and air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the onions cook, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), and smoked paprika in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Remove the crispy mini blooming onions from the air fryer and serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use small onions to ensure they cook thoroughly in the air fryer and bloom properly.
- Spraying the onions lightly with cooking spray before air frying helps achieve a crispier texture.
- If you want extra spice, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or increase the hot sauce in the dipping sauce.
- Ensure the onions are dry after peeling to help the coatings adhere better.
- Serve immediately for best crispness and texture.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
