The Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion is a popular appetizer known for its crispy and flavorful deep-fried onion petals. Here’s a simplified version of the recipe that you can try at home: Ingredients: For the Blooming Onion: 1 large onion 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 1 cup buttermilk Salt and black pepper to taste Vegetable oil for frying For the Dipping Sauce: 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons ketchup 2 teaspoons cream-style horseradish sauce 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions: Prepare the Onion: Cut off the top of the onion (about 1/2 inch from the root end), and peel the outer skin. Using a sharp knife, make 4 vertical cuts around the onion, equally spaced. Make additional cuts, creating a total of 16 evenly spaced petals. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk and season with salt and black pepper. Coat the Onion: Dip the onion into the buttermilk, making sure it gets between the petals. Place the onion in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Gently shake off excess flour.
Repeat the Coating: Dip the onion back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again, ensuring a double coating for a crispy texture. Shape the Blooming Onion: Gently spread out the onion petals to create a blooming effect. Heat the Oil: In a large, deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C). Fry the Blooming Onion: Carefully lower the coated onion into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain and Season: Remove the blooming onion from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Season with additional salt if desired. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish sauce, paprika, salt, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Serve: Serve the Blooming Onion on a plate, and use the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your homemade Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion!