Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the onion by cutting off the top and peeling away the skin. Place the onion cut-side down on a cutting board.
3. Carefully make vertical cuts into the onion, starting from the top and stopping about 1/2 inch from the bottom. Repeat this process around the onion to create petal-like sections, being cautious not to cut all the way through.
4. In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well blended.
6. Begin the coating process by dipping the onion into the flour mixture, ensuring that all the petals are thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
7. Next, dip the onion into the egg mixture, making sure to coat every petal evenly.
8. Finally, coat the onion with bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well to the petals.
9. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated onion in the basket, cut-side up.
10. Air fry the onion for 15-20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through cooking and adjust the time as needed for even browning.
11. Once done, carefully remove the blooming onion from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the crispy, flavorful delight!