1. Prepare the Onion:
- Cut the Onion: Cut off the top (stem end) of the onion and peel off the outer skin. Place the onion cut-side down. Starting 1/2 inch from the root, make a downward cut all the way through to the cutting board. Repeat to make 4 evenly spaced cuts around the onion. Continue slicing between each section until you have 16 evenly spaced cuts, resembling petals.
- Separate the Petals: Gently separate the onion petals to ensure the coating can reach every part. Be careful not to break them off.
2. Prepare the Coating:
- Dry Mix: In a large bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Wet Mix: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined.
- Breadcrumb Mix: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
3. Coat the Onion:
- Flour First: Place the onion in the bowl with the flour mixture, making sure to coat each petal. Turn the onion over and shake off the excess flour.
- Egg and Buttermilk: Dip the floured onion into the egg mixture, ensuring all the petals are covered. Let the excess drip off.
- Breadcrumbs: Finally, place the onion in the bowl with the panko breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spoon to sprinkle breadcrumbs over the onion, ensuring each petal is well coated.
4. Cook the Onion:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place in Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated onion in the basket, root side down. Spray the onion generously with olive oil spray.
- Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the onion is golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and spray with more olive oil if it looks dry.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared horseradish, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Plate and Serve: Remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for a Perfect Air Fryer Blooming Onion:
- Cut Evenly: Ensure the onion petals are evenly spaced and not too thin to prevent breaking.
- Thorough Coating: Make sure each petal is well coated with flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
- Oil Spray: Generously spray the onion with olive oil to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- Serve Fresh: The blooming onion is best enjoyed immediately after cooking while it’s still hot and crispy.
The Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both delicious and healthier than the traditional deep-fried version. With its crispy coating and tender onion petals, paired with a zesty dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy this crunchy, flavorful treat with your family and friends!