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Crispy Mini Blooming Onions

Adorable, bite-sized versions of the classic blooming onion appetizer. These pearl onions are cut into flowers, breaded, and air-fried until golden and crispy. The perfect party snack without the deep-frying mess.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Onions
  • 1 lb pearl onions or large shallots peeled
Dredging Station
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cooking spray olive oil or avocado oil

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Paring Knife
  • Shallow Bowls
  • Oil Sprayer

Method
 

  1. Peel the onions and slice off the top tip, keeping the root end intact.
  2. Place onion root-side down. Cut a cross (X) from the top down, stopping 1/4 inch from the root. If large enough, cut diagonally again to make 8 sections.
  3. Set up 3 bowls: One with flour mixed with spices/cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, one with Panko.
  4. Dredge each onion in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in Panko.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place onions in basket, not touching.
  6. Spray onions generously with oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

Notes

Soaking cut onions in ice water for 30 minutes before breading helps them open up 'bloom' style.