Step 1: Prepare the Onion
- Cut the onion: Peel the onion and cut off the top (stem end) to create a flat surface. Place the onion cut side down. Starting 1/2 inch from the root end, make a downward cut all the way through to the cutting board. Repeat to make 16 evenly spaced cuts around the onion, creating petals.
- Soak the onion: Gently separate the onion petals and soak the onion in ice water for 1 hour. This helps the petals open up.
Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Battering Stations
- Flour mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Buttermilk mixture: In another large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
Step 4: Bread the Onion
- Coat with flour: Remove the onion from the ice water and pat it dry with paper towels. Dredge the onion in the flour mixture, making sure to get flour between all the petals. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip in buttermilk: Dip the flour-coated onion into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it gets into all the crevices.
- Second coating: Dredge the onion again in the flour mixture for a second coating. Ensure all the petals are well coated.
Step 5: Fry the Onion
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the onion: Carefully place the battered onion into the hot oil, root side up. Fry for about 7-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain: Remove the onion from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve hot: Place the blooming onion on a serving platter and serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce in the center or on the side.
Tips for Perfect Blooming Onion
- Cut carefully: Ensure your cuts are even and go deep enough to separate the petals but not all the way through the root.
- Cold soak: Soaking the onion in ice water helps the petals open up and makes for a better presentation.
- Double coat: Dredging the onion twice in the flour mixture ensures a crispy and flavorful crust.
- Monitor oil temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 375°F (190°C) for even frying.
Conclusion
The Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion is a delicious and impressive appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. This recipe ensures a crispy, flavorful onion with a spicy dipping sauce that’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and savoring this iconic dish with your family and friends!