Easy Bloomin’ Onion Bites with Zesty Dipping Sauce Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Easy Bloomin’ Onion Bites served with a zesty dipping sauce, perfect as a fun appetizer or snack. This recipe features a large sweet onion cut into petal-like slices, coated in a seasoned flour batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection for a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Onion Bites
- 1 large sweet onion
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Dipping Sauce
- Dipping sauce of your choice (e.g., ranch, spicy mayo, or zesty aioli)
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion: Slice the large sweet onion into petal-like sections without cutting all the way through the bottom so the onion stays intact, resembling a blooming flower.
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful seasoned coating.
- Coat the Onion: Dip the prepared onion into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then dredge it thoroughly into the seasoned flour mixture ensuring all petals are coated evenly.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the onion for even frying.
- Fry the Onion Bites: Carefully lower the battered onion into the hot oil, frying for 5-7 minutes or until the coating turns a crispy golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the onion bites from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm alongside your favorite zesty dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for optimal crispiness and to avoid soggy bites.
- Do not cut all the way through the onion to maintain its flower shape.
- You can prepare the seasoned flour mixture in advance for a quicker cooking process.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature for safety and best results.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
