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Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a delightful snack or a side dish that’s bursting with flavour and crunch, look no further than crispy mini blooming onions. This popular appetiser, typically deep-fried to perfection, can be easily replicated in an air fryer, making it a healthier yet equally delicious option. The air fryer not only achieves a satisfying crispiness but also cuts down on the oil used, meaning you can indulge without the guilt.

What Are Mini Blooming Onions?

Mini blooming onions are smaller versions of the classic blooming onion, a dish popularised by American casual dining restaurants. The onion is cut in a way that allows its layers to pull apart during cooking, resembling a flower’s petals. When properly seasoned and cooked, the result is a crunchy, flavourful treat that’s perfect for dipping into sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa.

Ingredients

To make crispy mini blooming onions, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Onions:

• 4 small shallots or mini onions
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 egg (optional, for better adhesion)

For Coating:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Mini Onions

Begin by peeling the mini onions carefully. Cut the root off but ensure you leave the stem intact to hold them together. Make several vertical cuts from the root towards the top, about halfway down, spacing them evenly around the onion. This will create the ‘blooming’ effect when cooked.

2. Bathe in Buttermilk

In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and egg, whisking together until smooth. Next, submerge the prepared mini onions in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes, allowing them to soak and absorb flavour.

3. Create the Coating

In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In a separate dish, add the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

4. Dredging the Onions

After the mini onions have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. First, coat each onion in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every crevice is covered. Then, dip them back into the buttermilk and finally roll them in the panko breadcrumb mixture. For an extra crunch, press the breadcrumbs gently into the onions.

5. Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Lightly spray or drizzle the basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated mini onions in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded – cook in batches if necessary. Spray the tops lightly with more cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up.

Cook for 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the onion layers.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, serve the crispy mini blooming onions immediately while they’re hot and crunchy. Pair them with a selection of dips, such as classic ranch dressing, a spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy balsamic glaze. These little bites make for an excellent addition to any gathering, game night, or a cosy night in.

Final Thoughts

Crispy mini blooming onions in the air fryer are not only an appetising treat but also a fun way to enjoy a beloved classic with a healthier twist. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, they are sure to impress your family and friends. So, grab some onions, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy this delightful culinary creation!

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