Crispy Mini Bloomin’ Onions with Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip Recipe
This recipe features crispy mini bloomin’ onions with a crunchy seasoned coating, deep-fried to golden perfection and served alongside a creamy buttermilk ranch dip. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, these blooming onions deliver a delightful combination of crispy texture and rich flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mini 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 depth)
For the 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
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and trim off the top 1/4 inch. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board and slice downwards into 8 to 12 cuts, stopping just before the root to create a flower shape.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Place the sliced onions in a large bowl and pour over 1 cup of buttermilk. Let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes to help the coating adhere during frying.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Coat the Onions: Remove the onions from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Carefully dredge each onion in the flour mixture, making sure to get between the petals. Press gently to secure the coating and shake off any excess.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a deep skillet or fryer with 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a small amount of coating mixture; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
- Fry the Onions: Carefully lower each coated onion into the hot oil with a slotted spoon. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Maintain oil temperature for consistent cooking.
- Make the Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dip: While the onions fry, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crispy mini bloomin’ onions on a serving platter alongside the ranch dip. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not cut all the way through the onion to keep it intact during frying.
- The buttermilk soak is essential for coating adhesion and flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked onions.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
- Optional: Add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick in the coating mixture.
Keywords: blooming onion, appetizer, fried onions, crispy onions, buttermilk ranch dip, snack, party food
