Bloomin’ Onion Petals Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the crispy, flavorful bite of a Bloomin’ Onion but want a more convenient way to enjoy it, these Bloomin’ Onion Petals are the perfect solution. They deliver the same crunchy, seasoned coating with a tangy dipping sauce, making them ideal for appetizers, game nights, or snacking.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Onion Petals:

• Large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• Buttermilk
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Horseradish sauce
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Lemon juice

Directions

1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and cut onions into petals by slicing into quarters and separating the layers.
2. Make the Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
3. Coat the Onion Petals: Dip each petal into the buttermilk mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Repeat for a double coating.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Petals: Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
7. Serve: Enjoy immediately with the dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper in the breading or add hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture.
• Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Extra Crunch: Add panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture for added crispiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Tip: Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

How do I keep the onion petals crispy?

Drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent excess oil from making them soggy.

What’s the best onion to use for this recipe?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla work best for their mild, slightly sweet flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best served fresh, but you can prep the onions and breading station in advance.

What’s a good substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?

Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.

How do I make the dipping sauce spicier?

Add extra horseradish, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the sauce.

What other dipping sauces pair well with this?

Ranch, honey mustard, or chipotle mayo are great alternatives.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

How do I cut the onions for petals?

Quarter the onion and separate the layers to create petal-like shapes.

What main dishes go well with Bloomin’ Onion Petals?

They pair well with burgers, grilled steaks, or fried chicken for a restaurant-style meal.

Conclusion

Bloomin’ Onion Petals are a fun, bite-sized way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Bloomin’ Onion without the hassle. With a crispy coating and a bold dipping sauce, they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or as a delicious appetizer. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy the crispy goodness!

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