Easy Bloomin Onion Recipe for Home Cooks

Who doesn't love the crispy, deep-fried delight that is a bloomin' onion? Traditionally served as an appetizer at Outback Steakhouse, this iconic dish can now be effortlessly recreated in your own kitchen with this Easy Bloomin Onion Recipe tailored for home cooks.

Ingredients for Your Bloomin Onion

• 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia onions are recommended for their sweetness.)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparing the Bloomin Onion

Here's how to prepare your onion for the blooming process:

1. Cut off the top (non-root end) of the onion about 1/2 inch to create a flat base.
2. Peel the onion.
3. With a sharp knife, make vertical cuts around the onion, keeping the bottom part attached. Start with a quarter-inch from the root. Make cuts approximately 1/4 inch apart to achieve that classic bloomin' look.
4. After cutting, soak the onion in ice-cold water for about an hour. This will help the petals to bloom.

Making the Coating for the Bloomin Onion

Now for the coating that gives the bloomin' onion its signature crunch:

• Mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
• In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk for the egg wash.
• Pat the onion dry with paper towels.
• Dip the onion first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and again into the flour mixture, ensuring you coat it evenly.

Frying Your Bloomin Onion

Now comes the exciting part, frying:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Ensure there's enough oil to fully submerge the onion.
2. Place the coated onion cut-side down into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, then carefully turn the onion over. Continue frying until golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes total.
3. Remove the onion from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

⚡ Note: For a crispier onion, consider double-dipping in the flour mixture before frying, although this will make it a bit heavier.

Creating the Dips

The dipping sauce is what elevates the bloomin' onion:

• Creamy Sauce: Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon creamy horseradish sauce, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano, a dash of black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Spicy Sauce: For those who prefer a kick, you can add more cayenne or even include some hot sauce to taste.

Serve your bloomin' onion hot with the prepared sauces on the side.

There you have it! A homemade bloomin' onion that's not only a visual treat but also a testament to your culinary skills. From preparing the onion to mastering the perfect fry, you've taken a step into transforming a restaurant favorite into a homemade delight. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't worry if your first onion doesn't bloom quite as expected. Each attempt will make your dish more impressive!

Can I bake the bloomin’ onion instead of frying?

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Yes, you can bake the bloomin’ onion for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 30-45 minutes or until golden and crispy.

How can I make the onion bloom better?

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Using an ice-cold water bath for at least an hour helps to make the petals bloom better. Also, ensuring you cut the onion uniformly from the top down to the root while leaving the root intact is key.

What should I do if my bloomin’ onion falls apart while frying?

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Try securing the layers with toothpicks before frying. Lower the onion into the oil slowly and evenly to prevent the petals from separating prematurely.