Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe
This recipe for Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions features sweet onions cut into delicate flower shapes, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and flour mixture, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Served alongside a creamy buttermilk ranch dip, these crispy delights are perfect appetizers or snacks for gatherings and game days.
- Author: rami
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Onions
- 4 small to medium-sized onions (Vidalia or sweet onions work best)
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Soaking
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2-3 inches deep)
Buttermilk Ranch Dip
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and cut off the top 1/4 inch. Place each onion cut-side down on a cutting board and slice downwards into the onion, making 8-12 cuts all the way to the bottom but not through it, creating a flower effect.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Place the prepared onions in a large bowl and cover them with 1 cup of buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure the coating adheres properly during frying.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the coating mixture.
- Coat the Onions: Remove the onions from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully coat each onion in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring you get in between the petals. Press gently to help the coating stick and shake off any excess.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or deep fryer to submerge the onions (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping some coating in; it should sizzle and rise immediately.
- Fry the Onions: Lower one onion at a time into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep oil temperature steady and repeat with remaining onions.
- Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While onions fry, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until combined and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter with the creamy ranch dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, and enjoy this delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor and mildness.
- Be careful not to cut completely through the onion to maintain the flower shape.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure crispy, evenly fried onions.
- Allow the onions to soak in buttermilk long enough to help the coating adhere better.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control spice level.
- Drain fried onions on paper towels to remove excess oil for a crispier texture.
- The dip can be made ahead and chilled to develop flavors.
Keywords: bloomin onion, crispy onion rings, fried onion appetizer, buttermilk ranch dip, party snacks, game day appetizers