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Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Air Fryer Blooming Onion: Crispy Flavor Explosion at Home

This Air Fryer Blooming Onion is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, offering a crispy delight perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Onion
  • 1 large sweet onion Vidalia works beautifully for sweetness!
For the Coating
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon paprika Smoked paprika adds a delightful twist!
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust according to your spice level!
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Elevates the savory profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Italian seasoning is a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Egg Wash
  • 2 large eggs Try a flaxseed mixture for a vegan version.
  • 1/2 cup milk Plant-based alternatives work just as well.
  • 1 tablespoon water No substitutes required here!
Seasoning
  • to taste salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • to taste pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
For Cooking

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cut off about 1/2 inch from the top of the onion and peel the skin. Make eight evenly spaced cuts towards the root, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, cayenne, cumin, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, beat eggs, milk, and water until well combined.
  4. Coat the onion with the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash, and coat it again with the flour mixture.
  5. Chill the coated onion in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Spray the onion generously with oil and prepare an aluminum foil sling for the air fryer basket.
  7. Place the onion on the prepared foil sling in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 25 minutes, checking halfway through and spraying with oil 2-3 times.
  8. Once golden and crispy, carefully remove the onion, allow it to cool slightly, season with salt, and serve with dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For maximum crispiness, keep an eye on the onion while air frying, as cooking time may vary by air fryer model.

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