Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
To make the Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 small onions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions:
- Step 1: Prepare the onions by peeling and cutting off the tops. Slice into the onions to create petal shapes, ensuring you leave the root intact to hold the pieces together.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create your coating mixture.
- Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. This will be your binding mixture.
- Step 4: Dip each onion into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well coated, followed by the egg mixture, and finally coat each onion generously with the breadcrumbs.
- Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the onions.
- Step 6: Lightly spray the coated onions with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded; you may need to do this in batches.
- Step 7: Air fry the onions for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Step 8: Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Making Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup to enhance the flavor even more.
- If prepping in advance, keep the prepared onions in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
- Ensure even cooking by periodically shaking the basket during the cooking process.
- For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I store leftover blooming onions?
Store leftover blooming onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use the air fryer to retain their crispiness.
2. Can I make these without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly.
3. Can I use larger onions?
While smaller onions work best for blooming, larger onions can be used. Just remember that cooking times may vary.
4. What dipping sauces go well with blooming onions?
Popular options include ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, and honey mustard.
5. Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to air fry.
Conclusion
Mini Air Fryer Blooming Onions are a delightful treat that bring a taste of indulgence with a healthier twist. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy snack at home, this recipe is simple and quick, making it a go-to for any occasion. With the perfect blend of seasoning and a satisfying crunch, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try making them today, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful petals with your favorite dipping sauce!