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Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer

If you’re seeking a delightful snack to impress your friends or a unique addition to your dinner table, look no further than crispy mini blooming onions. These tasty treats have a satisfying crunch and provide a wonderful burst of flavour. Thanks to the air fryer, they are cooked to perfection without the excess oil, making them a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. Here’s how to achieve the ultimate crispy mini blooming onions right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 small onions (preferably sweet varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of kick)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions: Start by peeling the onions and cutting off approximately 1 inch from the tops and tails. Next, slice each onion vertically into eight equal sections, being careful not to cut all the way through. Each section should remain connected at the root. Gently pull apart the petals to give them a blooming effect.

2. Dredging Station: Set up a dredging station with three bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Onions: Dip each blooming onion first into the flour mixture, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the onion into the egg mixture, allowing it to coat evenly. Finally, press the onion firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring all crevices are filled for maximum crunch. Repeat this process for each onion.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial to achieving that golden-brown finish.

5. Air Fry the Onions: Lightly spray the blooming onions with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking. Place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry them for 10-12 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. You may want to turn them halfway through for even cooking.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the crispy mini blooming onions from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, paired with a dipping sauce such as ranch, garlic mayonnaise, or a zesty spicy dip.

Tips for the Perfect Blooming Onions

• Select the Right Onions: Sweet onions work best due to their mild flavour and tenderness. If using larger onions, cut them into fewer sections to maintain structural integrity.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture. Adding Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs can create exciting flavour variations.
• Storage: Leftover blooming onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.

These crispy mini blooming onions are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also make for an eye-catching presentation. Whether you enjoy them as a party snack or as a fun side dish, they are sure to become a favourite in your home. With the help of your air fryer, enjoying this indulgent delight has never been easier—or healthier! So get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet impressive culinary creation.