Air Fryer Blooming Onion Petals
Enjoy a healthier, irresistible version of the classic blooming onion with this Air Fryer Blooming Onion Petals recipe. Featuring large onion petals coated in a crispy, seasoned breadcrumb crust, these golden treats are air fried to perfection for a crunchy texture without excess oil. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, customizable with spices or herbs, and easy to make for any occasion.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs)
Main Ingredients
- 1 large yellow or sweet onion
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and slice it into petal-shaped segments. Cut about 1/2 inch from the bottom to keep the petals attached, then carefully separate the individual petals as much as possible to create a “blooming” effect.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Place the onion petals in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. This soaking step softens the onion slightly while helping the seasoning and breading adhere.
- Mix the Seasoned Flour and Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give the petals their signature crispy, flavorful crust.
- Coat the Onion Petals: Remove the petals from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each petal individually in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Air Fry the Petals: Arrange the coated petals in your air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray with cooking oil to encourage browning. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- Choose a large, firm onion with thick petals for even cooking and easy separation.
- Do not skip soaking in buttermilk to keep petals tender and help coating adhere.
- Use cooking spray lightly to get a crispy finish without sogginess.
- Space out petals in the air fryer basket to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crisping.
- Flip petals halfway through cooking for even browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: Air fryer, blooming onion, onion petals, appetizer, snack, crispy, healthy, gluten-free option