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–+ servings
Air Fryer Mini Blooming Onions

Air Fryer Mini Blooming Onions for Guilt-Free Crunchy Bliss

Enjoy the crispy satisfaction of Air Fryer Mini Blooming Onions, a guilt-free snack perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 onions
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Coating
  • 1 cup buttermilk or milk with lemon juice Non-dairy alternative can be used.
  • 1 cup flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tbsp paprika Smoked paprika can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Increase for more onion flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Onions
  • 4 small sweet onions (e.g., Vidalia) Choose firm, unblemished onions.
For Air Frying
  • 1 cup cooking spray/oil Lightly spray for a crispy finish.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare buttermilk by combining buttermilk or milk with a splash of lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
  2. Peel the sweet onions, cutting off the tops and bottoms. Make vertical cuts from the top to form “petals,” ensuring not to cut through.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dip the onions in the buttermilk mixture, then coat generously with the dry flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  6. Place the coated onions in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
  7. Air fry the onions for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
  8. While the onions are frying, prepare a dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish sauce, and a splash of lemon juice.
  9. Remove the onions once cooked and let cool slightly. Serve warm with the dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1onionCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 5mg

Notes

For best results, cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

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