Crispy Fried Onion Flowers

Name: Crispy Fried Onion Flowers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large onion (peeled); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 lt vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp horseradish; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp lemon juice

25 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Crispy Fried Onion Flowers

Delightful crispy fried onion flowers with a zesty dipping sauce, perfect for any gathering.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Fried onion flowers are a show-stopping appetizer that are as fun to make as they are to eat. This dish involves a clever technique of slicing an onion to resemble a blooming flower, then coating it with a seasoned batter before frying it to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, flavourful treat that makes a fantastic starter for any meal or a snack for your next gathering. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these onion flowers are sure to impress your guests and become a favourite at your table.

Ingredients

Servings

Onion Flower

Dipping Sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Onion

Cut about 1 cm off the top of the onion and peel it. Place the onion cut-side down. Starting 1 cm from the root, make a downward cut all the way through to the board. Repeat to make 12-16 evenly spaced cuts around the onion.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Open the Onion

Carefully flip the onion over and gently separate the outer layers to create a flower-like shape.

Pro tip: Gently spread the petals to prevent tearing.

Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix milk and beaten egg.

Pro tip: Ensure the batter is smooth for even coating.

Coat the Onion

Dip the onion into the milk mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off excess, then dredge it in the flour mixture, coating all the petals.

Pro tip: Repeat the dipping process for a thicker coating.

Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.

Fry the Onion

Carefully place the coated onion in the hot oil. Fry for 7-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Pro tip: Ensure the onion is fully submerged for even cooking.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice in a bowl. Serve with the fried onion flower.

Pro tip: Adjust horseradish to taste.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Choose large, firm onions for the best results.</li><li>Ensure your oil is at the right temperature for a crispy texture.</li><li>Use a sharp knife to cut the onion into even petals.</li><li>Serve immediately for the best crunch.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Fried onion flowers are best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after frying to maintain their crispiness. Serve them with a tangy dip like a spicy mayonnaise or a garlic aioli for a delightful contrast. If you wish to prepare them ahead of time, slice the onions and prepare the batter in advance, but fry them just before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven to restore some of the crispiness.