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Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions are a delightful appetizer featuring sweet onions cut into petal-like sections, battered, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Paired with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip, this recipe offers a crunchy, flavorful bite ideal for gatherings or a special snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Bloomin’ Onions

  • 4 small to medium-sized onions (Vidalia or sweet onions work best)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 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
  • Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2-3 inches deep)

Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and trim off the top quarter inch. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board and slice downward, making 8-12 cuts around the onion without cutting through the base, creating a flower-like appearance.
  2. Soak in Buttermilk: Submerge the prepared onions in a large bowl filled with buttermilk. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes; this helps the coating stick better during frying.
  3. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
  4. Coat the Onions: Remove onions from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Carefully coat each onion in the flour mixture, making sure to get coating between all petals. Press gently to adhere and shake off excess.
  5. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or deep fryer to cover the onions (2-3 inches). Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a pinch of coating; it should sizzle and float immediately.
  6. Fry the Onions: Gently lower one coated onion into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining onions, maintaining oil temperature.
  7. 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, and salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a platter. Serve alongside the creamy ranch dip, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

  • Use sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor and texture.
  • Ensure oil temperature stays steady at 350°F for even frying and crispy texture.
  • Soaking onions in buttermilk helps the coating adhere and tenderizes the onions slightly.
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount for desired heat level or omit for milder flavor.
  • Serve immediately for best crispiness; leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to regain crispness.
  • The creamy buttermilk ranch dip can be made ahead and refrigerated for flavor melding.

Keywords: Bloomin’ Onions, Crispy Onion Rings, Fried Onion Appetizer, Buttermilk Dip, Party Snacks, Deep Fried Onion

Find it online: https://thedishspot.com/crispy-mini-bloomin-onions-with-creamy-buttermilk-ranch-dip-recipe/