Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the onion by cutting off the top (stem end) of the onion and removing the outer peel. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board. Starting about 1/2 inch from the root end, make vertical cuts all the way around the onion, leaving the root end intact. Make 8-12 cuts, depending on the size of your onion.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
5. In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
6. Dip the onion into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it well, including between the petals.
7. Dip the floured onion into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
8. Finally, coat the onion with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the onion.
9. Lightly spray the coated onion with cooking spray.
10. Place the coated onion in the air fryer basket, root side down.
11. Air fry the onion at 360°F (180°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may want to check halfway through and rotate the onion for even cooking.
12. Once done, carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.
13. Serve the blooming onion with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy mayo or ranch dressing.