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Air Fryer Blooming Onion Bites

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These air fryer blooming onion bites are a crispy, golden, gluten-free snack inspired by the classic blooming onion. Bite-sized onion petals are coated in a seasoned gluten-free crust and air fried for a crunchy, addictive treat—perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a fun side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow)
  • 1 cup gluten free flour blend
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/3 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • 1 cup gluten free breadcrumbs (panko-style preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
  • Optional dipping sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Peel onions and cut in half from top to bottom. Slice each half into 4-6 wedges, then separate into petals. Aim for pieces about 1 to 2 inches wide.
  2. Set out three bowls. In the first, mix gluten free flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In the second, whisk eggs and milk together until smooth. In the third, pour in the gluten free breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each onion petal in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, then roll in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick. Place finished petals on a baking sheet or plate.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place coated onion bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd—work in batches if needed. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  6. For the dipping sauce (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sriracha, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust heat to preference.
  7. Transfer hot blooming onion bites to a platter and serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Notes

Pat onion petals dry before coating for best crunch. Double-coat for extra crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. For dairy-free, use unsweetened non-dairy milk and vegan mayo. For low-carb, swap gluten free flour for almond flour and breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in air fryer for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, blooming onion, gluten free, snack, appetizer, crispy, onion bites, party food, easy recipe

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/air-fryer-blooming-onion-bites-recipe-easy-crispy-gluten-free-snack/