Gluten-Free Blooming Onion

Crisp, flavorful, and entirely gluten-free, this Gluten-Free Blooming Onion is a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering! Made from a large sweet onion that's artfully cut to "bloom," it's coated in a zesty gluten-free flour mixture featuring paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for the ultimate kick. The onion is double-dipped, ensuring a crunchy golden-brown crust that’s fried to perfection. Paired with a creamy and tangy homemade dipping sauce—brimming with mayo, ketchup, horseradish, and smoked paprika—this dish is both indulgent and allergy-friendly. Easy to make in under an hour, this recipe transforms a classic favorite into a crispy, crowd-pleasing snack everyone will love. Perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever you're craving a restaurant-quality treat in your own kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 46/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 Large sweet onion
• 1 cup Gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 1 Large egg
• 1 cup Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 4 cups Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
• 0.25 cup Ketchup
• 1 tbsp Horseradish
• 0.5 tsp Smoked paprika
• 0.25 tsp Salt (for sauce)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the top of the onion and peel the outer layer. Place the onion root side up, and make four cuts into quarters, stopping 1/2 inch from the root. Repeat to make 16 cuts.

Step 2

Gently separate the outer layers of the cut onion to create the 'blooming' effect.

Step 3

In a large bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.

Step 5

Dip the onion in the flour mixture, coat thoroughly, and shake off the excess.

Step 6

Dip the floured onion into the egg mixture, ensuring all layers are covered. Allow excess to drip off.

Step 7

Coat the onion once more in the flour mixture, making sure to get into the layers, then shake off the excess.

Step 8

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Ensure it is enough to submerge the onion completely.

Step 9

Using a spider skimmer or slotted spoon, carefully lower the onion into the hot oil, cut side down. Fry for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the onion is golden brown and crispy.

Step 10

For the dipping sauce, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 11

Remove the blooming onion from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 12

Serve the gluten-free blooming onion warm with the prepared dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1907.9 grams (1907.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9847

Total Fat 1044.40g	1339%
Saturated Fat 147.90g	740%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 324mg	108%
Sodium 3695mg	161%
Total Carbohydrate 200.20g	73%
Dietary Fiber 8.30g	30%
Total Sugars 48.60g
Protein 22.40g	45%

Vitamin D 141IU	705%
Calcium 453mg	35%
Iron 4mg	20%
Potassium 1024mg	22%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 91.3%

Protein: 0.9%

Carbs: 7.8%