For now, love yourself and enjoy this one ...
Now love yourself and enjoy this one ...
Enjoy this flavorful, low-fat take on the blooming onion
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Hey, remember places like Applebee’s and TGIF? Most of their defrosted entrees were pretty subpar, but in college, they were our go-to spots for cheap late-night appetizers. One of my faves was the blooming onion. It was greasy and crunchy, with the perfect blend of sweet and salty. The thing is, I’m not in my 20s anymore and eating a fried onion at 12:00 am? Yeah, that’s not gonna happen. But an air fryer blooming onion with an early dinner? Now, we’re talking.
I’m a huge fan of onion rings. I love them baked. I love them air fried. And for parties, I like to fancify them with this easy blooming onion recipe. Best of all, it’s way less messy compared to the deep fried versions, and it’s much healthier too. And guess what? It’s just as crunchy and tasty. I blend a bit of paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano for a savory and herbaceous flavor. Add your favorite dip, and I bet you anything this air fryer blooming onion will be gone faster than you can say, Shrek— IYKYK.
Is an Air Fryer Blooming Onion Healthy?
Compared to the fried variety, my air fryer blooming onion is definitely healthier. I spray a little oil on the onion, but just enough to get it crispy. Normally, blooming onions call for milk, but I’ve opted for almond milk. It works just as well. Likewise, if you’re nut-free, you could also use soy or oat milk. Are you gluten-sensitive? No worries! Just use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. And for egg-free homes, I’d recommend a commercial egg replacer; I’m particularly fond of Bob’s Mill egg replacer—top notch stuff.
the bloom effect: why the cut matters
Blooming onions is an art. While they’re not difficult to make, there is a precision and finesse to transforming this bland vegetable into a beautifully flavorful flower. As you’ll note from the instructions, this recipe requires a large, preferably sweet, onion. Because, in this case, size indeed matters. A large onion allows you to easily make a series of shallow vertical cuts so that the onion fans out for that signature bloom. Except this blooming isn’t just for aesthetics—you’re giving the coating and spice mix a chance to reach every crevice of the onion so it crisps evenly. All you need is a sharp knife and a steady hand.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 large sweet onion
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil or avocado oil in a spray bottle
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INSTRUCTIONS
Prep
Heat the air fryer and prepare your onion by cutting it into a blooming shape. Mix your dry ingredients in one bowl and your wet ingredients in another.
Coat
Dip the onion in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back in the flour mixture again. Chill it briefly to set the coating.
Cook
Spray the onion with oil and air fry until crispy, spraying occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot with your favorite healthy dip. Enjoy a lighter take on this classic appetizer that’s just as tasty and perfect for sharing!
Devour!
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FAQs & Tips
You can store this blooming onion in the fridge for about 5 days in an airtight container, but I don’t recommend it. Once cooked, it falls apart pretty fast. Personally, I’d eat this right away.
While this recipe calls for a sweet onion, you don’t have to go that route. Yellow, white, and red onions are more pungent, but even they get a little sweet after you fry them. It’s up to you!
Find one that’s specifically food grade. I like glass or metal bottles, but a BPA-free plastic bottle is okay, too.
Any neutral oil, like canola or vegetable, works!
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Serving Suggestions
My air fried blooming onion is the perfect party appetizer. I love serving it with other air fried favorites like chicken nuggets and buffalo cauliflower. Or try it with bacon wrapped pineapple bites with sweet and sour sauce! Speaking of sauce, my onion ring dipping sauce tastes just as good with a blooming onion. What’s your favoriting pairing? Let me know in the comments!
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Air Fryer Blooming Onion
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet onion
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil or avocado oil in a spray bottle
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350 degrees F for at least 3 minutes.
- Slice off the top to create a flat surface. Peel away the outer skin. Turn the onion cut-side down and make several evenly spaced cuts down into the onion starting 1/2 inch from the root. Continue making cuts between the first ones until you have 16 sections.
- Carefully flip the onion over and gently separate the petals.
- In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme and oregano. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and almond milk until well combined.
- Place the onion in a separate bowl, cut-side up, and spoon the flour mixture over it. Make sure each petal is well covered. Flip and tap off excess flour. Dip the onion into the egg mixture then dredge it back in the flour mixture for a second coat.
- Now, you need to let the coating set. I usually chill the onion in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
- Spray the onion generously with oil from your spray bottle (this is the secret to a crispy texture).
- Create a foil sling for easy handling and place the onion cut-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes (or stop when you see it golden and crispy). Don’t forget to spray the onion 2-3 times during the cooking.
- Once done, carefully remove the onion using the foil sling. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately. Enjoy picking your dips!
Nutrition
The post Air Fryer Blooming Onion appeared first on Food Faith Fitness.
References:
By: FoodfaithfitnessTitle: Air Fryer Blooming Onion
Sourced From: www.foodfaithfitness.com/air-fryer-blooming-onion/
Published Date: Fri, 08 Mar 2024 21:20:24 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between basil and oregano?
Both of these herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family. They share similar flavors, but the differences are obvious.
Oregano is more pungent than basil. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to foods.
Basil leaves are smaller than oregano leaves. They are also softer and less aromatic.
The two herbs are often used interchangeably. Although they are quite similar, each has its distinctive qualities.
How is basil used for medicinal purposes?
In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.
Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.
Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.
The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.
Which herbs are healing herbs?
If you look for healing herbs, you won’t find them in the supermarket. There isn’t any place to buy them. There is no store selling them.
You haven’t been able to find healing herbs because they aren’t sold anywhere. They are grown right here in our backyard.
Healing herbs are plants that grow naturally in North America. Like many common household items, these herbs grow throughout the United States and Canada.
These herbs treat minor ailments such as colds, flu, sore throats, coughs, and headaches. Many of these herbs have been used for centuries to help heal wounds and promote overall health.
Of course, when we say “heal,” we mean more than simply treating an illness. We also refer to the ability of these herbs to restore balance and harmony within ourselves and the world around us.
For example, the chamomile herb helps relieve stress. This means that if you feel stressed out, you may benefit from taking chamomile tea. Chamomile tea has been shown to reduce anxiety and nervous tension.
In addition, chamomile tea has been proven effective in relieving insomnia.
Chamomile tea has many other benefits, including its ability to ease stomach aches and gas pains and even improve digestion.
Another popular healing herb is Echinacea. Echinacea is known for helping to fight infections and boosting the immune system.
Echinacea is commonly taken internally and externally to fight infection, prevent viral diseases, and boost immunity. It is safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.
Echinacea also helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation. You can take echinacea orally or topically (as an ointment).
This herb is available in both liquid and capsule form. Liquid echinacea is often mixed with honey and lemon juice. The mixture is then strained and consumed.
Capsules are usually made of freeze-dried plant material. They contain standardized amounts of active ingredients. To use capsules, swallow one or two a day.
The third type of herbal remedy is called tincture. Tinctures are alcoholic extracts of herbs. They are typically used to treat internal problems. Tinctures are generally diluted before being ingested.
Tinctures can be taken orally or applied topically. For oral consumption, dilute tinctures with water. Some people prefer to mix tinctures with food.
Tinctures are easy to prepare. Put about one tablespoon of dried herb into a bottle containing enough alcohol to cover the herb completely. Allow the mixture to sit for several weeks. Then strain and consume.
You may want to try some of these natural remedies to see which ones work best.
Is it safe to eat raw garlic?
Raw garlic contains potent compounds that could cause stomach upset. Garlic should always be cooked before eating.
Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. It has been used since ancient times to treat various ailments.
Today, garlic is still commonly used for treating colds, coughs, and other respiratory infections. In addition, garlic can increase blood circulation, boost immunity, protect against cancer, lower cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, and reduce stress.
Do not ingest large amounts of raw garlic to avoid possible health problems. It does not harm you if you consume small amounts regularly, however. This is especially true with young children who might accidentally swallow some.
What spice is good for inflammation?
Turmeric is one spice that can be beneficial for reducing inflammation. It contains the active ingredient curcumin, which has been studied extensively and shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Other spices like ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, garlic, and cardamom may also reduce inflammation in the body. Adding these spices to your diet can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Another spice that can be used to reduce inflammation is black pepper. The active ingredient in black pepper, piperine, has been studied and found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help reduce pain associated with inflammation. Additionally, the spice contains antioxidants which are beneficial for overall health.
Adding black pepper to your diet may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. Be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any spice to your diet, as some spices may interact with your medications or supplements. Eating various healthy foods, including spices with anti-inflammatory benefits, can help keep your body balanced and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related illnesses.
In summary, adding spices to your diet can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting overall health. Spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, garlic, cardamom, and black pepper have all been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory effects.
Statistics
- Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.
- The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.
External Links
[TAG37]
- Antioxidant capacity of 26 spice extracts and characterization of their phenolic constituents - PubMed
- Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant - PMC
[TAG40]
[TAG42]
- Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial
- Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB
[TAG45]
How To
How to Use Herbs and Spices in Cooking?
Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor without adding calories. If you've been cooking for years, you already know how easy it is to make even bland foods taste delicious. Try these tips to add more flair to your dishes.
Herbs and spices are essential ingredients in any kitchen. In addition to making food taste better, they also help keep food fresh longer. From enhancing the flavors of soups and sauces to infusing drinks with exotic tastes, herbs and spices go far beyond traditional cooking.
The most important thing to remember when using herbs and spices is to use them sparingly. Even though they may seem like powerful ingredients, they have a strong scent. So, sprinkle them on top instead of piling them onto a dish.
You'll find that the best herbs and spices come in small containers. This makes them easier to measure out, so there won't be any waste. Plus, you'll save money because you won't have to buy large amounts.
Another tip is to avoid placing herbs and spices directly on hot pans. Heat will quickly dry out the herbs and spices, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Instead, place them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Use herbs and spices liberally in recipes where they naturally complement each other. For example, cinnamon pairs well with apples, while garlic complements tomatoes. Once you learn how to combine flavors, you'll be able to create your signature dishes.
Try experimenting with different herbs and spices to spice up meals. For instance, mix thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then toss the mixture with pasta, chicken, or fish.
After the meal, store leftover herbs and spices in airtight jars. This will prevent them from drying out. Also, wrap unused herbs and spices tightly in plastic wrap. They should stay fresh for at least three months.
If you're looking for ways to improve your diet, consider trying new herbs and spices. You can experiment with different blends until you discover your favorite combination. The possibilities are endless!
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