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Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion

Elevate your appetizer game with the Bloomin' Onion Delight, a stunning and delicious centerpiece perfect for any gathering. This iconic dish features a whole sweet onion, expertly cut to bloom open and fried to perfection, creating crispy petals just waiting to be dipped in a zesty sauce. Explore its origins, discover how to select the best onions, and learn an easy step-by-step recipe to impress your guests. Share this fun, interactive dish and create unforgettable moments at your next event.
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Ingredients
  

1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp dried oregano

1 cup buttermilk

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sour cream

2 tsp ketchup

1 tsp horseradish

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Onion: Start by removing about 1 inch from the top of the onion and carefully peel off the outer skin. Place the onion with the root side down on a cutting board. Slice downwards from the center into 4 to 8 wedges, being careful not to cut all the way through the root, which keeps the onion intact.

    Soak the Onion: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk with 1/2 cup of water. Submerge the onion in the buttermilk mixture, allowing it to soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize it and encourages blooming during frying.

      Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano.

        Coat the Onion: After soaking, carefully lift the onion from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dip the onion into the flour mixture, ensuring all petals are coated. Shake off any excess flour and repeat this step to get a double coating.

          Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

            Fry the Onion: Carefully place the onion into the hot oil (cut side down). Fry for about 3-4 minutes, then gently flip the onion and fry for another 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust cooking time depending on the size of the onion.

              Drain: Once cooked, remove the onion from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

                Make the Dipping Sauce: While the onion cools slightly, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, horseradish, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined.

                  Serve: Carefully open the bloom and serve it on a plate with the dipping sauce in the center. Encourage guests to pull petals apart and dip for that ultimate flavor experience!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr 15 min | 4 servings