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Blooming onions have long been cherished as a delectable appetizer or snack, adored for their unique presentation and delightful crunch. These flower-like formations of onion, often served with a tangy dipping sauce, have earned a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts across the globe. However, traditional methods of preparing blooming onions typically involve deep frying, which, while undeniably delicious, can be burdensome due to the mess and excess oil. Enter the air fryer—a modern kitchen marvel that allows you to achieve that same crispy texture with significantly less oil, making it a healthier alternative.

Crispy Mini Blooming Onions in Air Fryer

Indulge in these Crispy Mini Blooming Onions made in the air fryer! These tasty bites start with small yellow onions, soaked in buttermilk for a delicious flavor. Coated in a flavorful mix of flour, cornmeal, and spices, they're air-fried to perfection for a crispy finish. Perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dipping sauce, these mini blooming onions are sure to impress at any gathering. Quick and easy, they make a delightful treat!
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Ingredients
  

6 small yellow onions

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Prep the Onions: Start by slicing the tops off the mini onions (remove about 1/2 inch), then peel the onions. Slice the bottoms to create a flat base so they can stand upright without toppling over.

    Bloom the Onions: Carefully make cuts from the top of each onion to the center (but not cutting all the way through) to create petal shapes. Aim for 8-10 cuts per onion. Soak the onions in a bowl of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor and texture.

      Prepare the Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

        Coat the Onions: After soaking, remove each onion from the buttermilk and gently shake off the excess. Dip each onion into the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour and repeat for all onions.

          Air Fryer Preparation: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Spray each coated onion generously with cooking spray to help it crisp up during the cooking process.

            Air Frying: Place mini blooming onions in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced evenly and not touching. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

              Serve: Once done, carefully remove the crispy mini blooming onions from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like a spicy ranch or a tangy cayenne aioli.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6