This Blooming Onion is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! A large, sweet Vidalia onion is cut into a stunning flower-like shape, coated in a crispy, flavorful batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a zesty dipping sauce, it’s a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent and delicious.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 35 minutes
Servings
- 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Blooming Onion:
- Vegetable oil, for frying (amount will vary depending on the size of your pot or electric fryer)
- 1 large Vidalia onion, approximately 1 pound in weight
For the Coating:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1½ teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ to 2 cups buttermilk
For Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
- Peel the outer layer of the Vidalia onion and trim the top so it sits flat. Leave the root intact at the bottom to hold the petals together.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the onion vertically into quarters, stopping about ½ inch from the base. Repeat this process by making additional cuts between each quarter to create 8–12 wedges, depending on the size of the onion. Be sure not to cut through the root end.
- Gently separate the petals slightly to create a “bloom” effect.
Step 2: Make the Coating Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour , cornstarch, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Onion
- Dip the onion into the buttermilk, ensuring all the petals are coated. Let any excess drip off.
- Place the onion into the flour mixture, gently working the coating into the petals to ensure even coverage. Shake off any excess flour.
- For an extra-crispy coating, dip the onion back into the buttermilk and then into the remaining ½ cup of flour for a second layer.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot, Dutch oven, or electric fryer to a depth of about 2–3 inches . Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) . Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Step 5: Fry the Onion
- Carefully lower the coated onion into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or spider strainer. Ensure the onion is fully submerged.
- Fry the onion for 3–4 minutes , then carefully flip it over using tongs or a spatula. Continue frying for another 3–4 minutes , or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the onion from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the blooming onion to a serving plate and gently pull apart the petals to enhance its bloom shape.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) to prevent the onion from absorbing too much oil or burning.
- Onion Selection: Use a large, round onion like a Vidalia for the best results—it’s sweeter and easier to cut into a bloom shape.
- Double Coating: For an extra-crispy texture, double-coat the onion as described in the recipe.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day . Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze uncooked, coated onions for up to 1 month . Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mixture for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Center: Stuff shredded cheese between the onion petals before frying for a gooey surprise.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Blooming Onion is a fun, impressive, and downright addictive appetizer that’s sure to be the star of any gathering. With its crispy exterior, tender onion layers, and customizable dipping sauces, it’s a treat everyone will rave about. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make—perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
Ready to wow your friends and family? Grab a big onion and get frying—you won’t regret it!
