What is the best type of onion to use for a blooming onion recipe?

Large sweet onions such as Vidalia, Texas Sweet, or yellow onions are preferred for their size and mild, slightly sweet flavor. These onions provide large petals ideal for the blooming effect while keeping a balanced sweetness and aroma.

How do I cut an onion to make a blooming onion at home?

Place the peeled onion cut side down and make 12-16 vertical cuts spaced about 1/2 inch apart, stopping just before the root to keep petals attached. Carefully separate the petals with your fingers. Using a sharp knife helps achieve clean cuts and uniform petals.

Can I make a healthier version of the blooming onion by baking it instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes with a light brushing of olive oil offers a less oily alternative. The texture will be less crispy than frying but still flavorful. Using almond flour instead of wheat flour can also make it Paleo-friendly.

What sauces or dips pair best with a blooming onion?

Popular dipping sauces include classic ranch, spicy mayo, and Paleo ranch for baked versions. Ketchup, mayonnaise, and hot sauce also complement the fried onion's flavors. Experimenting with dips helps customize the eating experience.

Blooming Onion Recipe: Crispy Step-by-Step Guide with Video

Name: How to Make a Crispy Blooming Onion: Step-by-Step Recipe with Video Guide
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia, Texas Sweet, or yellow onion); 2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for Paleo version); 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon cumin (optional); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for sprinkling); 2 eggs; 1 cup whole milk; Vegetable oil for deep frying (enough to cover onion); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking version)

Description

🧅 Enjoy the irresistible crunch and flavor of a Crispy Blooming Onion, perfect for sharing and impressing guests.
🍽️ This step-by-step guide makes it easy to create a restaurant-quality appetizer at home, with options for deep frying or baking to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large sweet onions (Vidalia, Texas Sweet, or yellow onion)
2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for Paleo version)
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
2 eggs
1 cup whole milk
Vegetable oil for deep frying (enough to cover onion)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking version)

Instructions

1. Peel onions and trim about 1/2 inch from the top, keeping the root intact.
2. Place onion cut side down and make 12-16 vertical cuts spaced about 1/2 inch apart, stopping before the root.
3. Gently separate petals with fingers to allow even cooking.
4. Optional: Soak onions in cold water for several minutes to an hour, then dry thoroughly.
5. In a large bowl, mix flour, cayenne, paprika, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
6. In another bowl, beat eggs and milk until blended.
7. Dredge onion in seasoned flour, coating between petals; shake off excess.
8. Dip onion in egg wash, then coat again in flour mixture for a double crust.
9. For deep frying: Heat oil to 350-375°F (180-190°C). Carefully lower onion root side down; fry about 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
10. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
11. For baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place coated onion on baking sheet, brush with olive oil, cover with foil, bake 30 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake 5-10 more minutes until edges crisp.
13. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.

Notes

🧅 Choose large sweet onions for optimal flavor and petal size.
🔥 Maintain oil temperature to achieve perfect crispiness and avoid sogginess.
🕒 Soaking onions before cutting helps petals separate and reduces sharpness.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Deep-frying and Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 blooming onion
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 70 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 14 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg