The Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion

This crispy, golden Blooming Onion is an iconic appetizer that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare. The crispy, seasoned exterior gives way to soft, tender onion petals, making it perfect for dipping into a creamy, tangy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving something indulgent, this Blooming Onion is sure to be a hit.

1. Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia or similar)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon horseradish
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Cut off the top of the onion and peel away the skin. Place the onion root-side down on a cutting board. Carefully make 12-16 evenly spaced cuts from the top to the bottom, making sure not to cut through the root. Then, flip the onion and gently separate the “petals.”
2. Pour the buttermilk into a large bowl. Dip the onion into the buttermilk, ensuring it is completely submerged. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
4. After the onion has soaked, carefully coat it with the flour mixture. Make sure to get the flour between the petals, gently separating them as you go.
5. Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Gently lower the coated onion into the hot oil and fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the fryer.
6. While the onion is frying, make the dipping sauce by mixing together the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
7. Remove the onion from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve the Blooming Onion hot with the dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 500 kcal (per serving, depends on serving size) | Servings: 4 servings