Blooming Onion
A blooming onion is a delicious appetizer that features a large onion cut to resemble a flower and fried to perfection, creating a crunchy exterior and tender inside.
Ingredients
For the onion
- 2 large large sweet onions (about 450 to 500 grams each)
For the batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- Vegetable oil as needed for frying (enough to fill a deep pot by at least 5 centimeters)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by trimming the top off the onions, making sure to leave the root intact. Carefully peel away the outer papery skin, ensuring the onion remains whole.
- Cut the onion into quarters, but avoid cutting all the way through the root. Each quarter should be cut into either thirds or fourths, forming petal shapes as you go.
- Gently spread the petals apart to help them open. For best results, soak the onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, which encourages it to bloom even more.
Batter preparation
- In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and the remaining salt until well combined.
Coating and frying
- Coat the onion generously in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it again in the flour, ensuring each petal is covered.
- Once coated, let the onion rest for 5 minutes. This helps the breading stick better during frying.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to about 175 degrees Celsius, ensuring there’s enough oil to submerge the onion.
- Fry the onion for 10 to 12 minutes, turning it halfway through. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color.
- After frying, drain the onion on a rack or paper towels and sprinkle with a bit of salt while it’s still hot.
Serving
- Serve the blooming onion hot with a selection of dipping sauces.
Notes
For the best results, choose sweet onions and ensure the root is intact for better petal formation. Be generous with the seasoning and maintain the oil temperature while frying for optimal crispiness.