How do you make a blooming onion at home?

To make a blooming onion at home, start by selecting a large sweet onion. Cut off the top and remove the papery skin, keeping the root end intact. Make vertical cuts about ½ inch apart around the onion, stopping before you reach the root. Soak in cold water for 10-15 minutes to help petals separate. Gently spread the petal section, coat in batter, and deep fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

What type of onion works best for making blooming onions?

Large sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best for blooming onions. These varieties are typically flatter and wider, making it easier to create the flower-like appearance. Sweet onions also have a milder flavor that won't overpower the dish. Avoid using very small onions or extremely pungent varieties like red onions, as they won't bloom properly and may be too sharp in taste.

What's the best oil temperature for frying blooming onions?

The ideal oil temperature for frying blooming onions is 350-375°F. If the oil is too hot (above 375°F), the outside may burn before the inside cooks through. If it's too cool (below 350°F), the onion will absorb too much oil and become greasy rather than crispy. Use a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot with at least 2 inches of oil to fully submerge the onion. Test the temperature with a small piece of batter before adding the whole onion.

How do you fix a blooming onion that won't open properly?

If your blooming onion won't open, first ensure you've cut deeply enough - the slices should go about ¾ of the way through the onion. Soaking it in cold water for 10-15 minutes can help the petals separate. After frying, use two forks to gently pry the petals apart while the onion is still hot and pliable. If it still won't bloom, try cutting slightly deeper slices next time or soaking for a few additional minutes to help loosen the layers.

What dipping sauces go well with blooming onions?

The classic blooming onion sauce is a creamy horseradish dipping sauce, but you can also serve with spicy remoulade, garlic aioli, or a simple ranch dressing. For a tangier option, try a vinegar-based barbecue sauce. If you prefer something cooler, a Greek tzatziki or cucumber dill sauce works well. For heat seekers, wasabi mayo or sriracha mixed with sour cream adds a nice kick. Serve sauces in individual ramekins for easy dipping.

Bloomin Onion Copycat Recipe: Outback Steakhouse Style

Name: Bloomin Onion
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 grams flour for creating the crispy batter; 100 grams sugar for balancing flavors; 2 large eggs for binding the mixture; 50 milliliters oil for frying to achieve crispiness; 1 teaspoon baking powder for adding lightness

Description

🧅 Relish the crunchy, golden layers of spiced onion that mimic your favorite restaurant appetizer, bringing excitement to any meal.
🧅 Discover the easy homemade version that’s perfect for sharing, offering a fun and flavorful alternative without leaving home.

Ingredients

Scale

200 grams flour for creating the crispy batter

100 grams sugar for balancing flavors

2 large eggs for binding the mixture

50 milliliters oil for frying to achieve crispiness

1 teaspoon baking powder for adding lightness

Instructions

1-First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by selecting a large sweet onion and gathering all your measured ingredients like 200 grams of flour and 100 grams of sugar. Wash and pat dry the onion to remove any dirt. This mise-en-place step sets you up for success, making the process smooth and fun!

2-Second Step: Prepare the Onion Cut off the top of the onion and peel the outer layers, leaving the root intact. Make vertical cuts around the onion, about half an inch apart, stopping near the root to create those iconic petals. Once done, soak the onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes to help the petals separate easily.

3-Third Step: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large bowl, combine 200 grams of flour, 100 grams of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Stir them together until well blended, creating a base that will give your Bloomin Onion its signature crunch. This step ensures even distribution of flavors and textures!

4-Fourth Step: Add the Wet Ingredients Crack 2 large eggs into another bowl and mix with 50 milliliters of oil. Slowly add this to your dry mixture, stirring until you get a smooth batter. Dip the prepared onion into this batter, making sure every petal is coated for that even, golden finish.

5-Fifth Step: Fry to Perfection Heat your oil to around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit in a deep pot. Carefully lower the battered onion into the hot oil, root side up. Fry for 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy, flipping if needed for even cooking. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature steady!

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Remove the Bloomin Onion from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel. For the best experience, serve it hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Cut into the petals and share with friends, savoring that fresh, crispy goodness you just made. For more ideas, check out our stuffed chicken recipe to pair with it!

Notes

🧅 Select a large, firm onion for the best blooming effect.
🔥 Fry in hot oil to ensure crispiness and prevent sogginess.
🍴 Serve with a homemade dipping sauce to enhance the flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
None: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Deep-frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 onion
Calories: 450 per serving
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 600 milligrams
Fat: 22 grams
Saturated Fat: 3 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 18 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 55 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Protein: 9 grams
Cholesterol: 50 milligrams

Keywords: Blooming Onion, Copycat, Restaurant Style, Fried Appetizer