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Bite-Sized Blooming Onions

Crispy Bite-Sized Blooming Onions: Snack Time Just Got Better

Crispy Bite-Sized Blooming Onions are a delightful vegetarian snack that impresses at gatherings with their customizable flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Onions
  • 2 large Sweet Onions Substitution: Use yellow onions for a sharper taste.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Substitution: Use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika Adjust the amount for more or less smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Omit if using fresh onions for a stronger flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Omit for a milder dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • vegetable oil Vegetable Oil Choose a neutral-flavored oil for frying.
For the Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Check for vegetarian brands if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Horseradish Omit if a milder sauce is desired.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Consistency and flavor enhancer in the sauce.

Equipment

  • Deep Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by peeling the sweet onions and slicing them into bite-sized wedges. Soak the wedges in buttermilk for 10 minutes to infuse moisture and enhance their natural sweetness.
  2. While the onions are soaking, prepare the coating by combining all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt in a shallow dish. In another dish, place panko breadcrumbs.
  3. After soaking, drain the excess buttermilk from the onion wedges. Dredge each wedge in the flour mixture until well coated, then dip them back into the buttermilk for a second layer of moisture. Finally, roll the coated wedges in panko breadcrumbs.
  4. In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated onion wedges in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. While the blooming onions are frying, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish (if using), smoked paprika, and garlic powder for the dipping sauce.
  6. Once your crispy bite-sized blooming onions are done, arrange them on a serving platter and serve hot alongside the zesty dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Keep leftover blooming onions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat fried onions in the oven to keep them crispy.

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