Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
why make this recipe
Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip are a delightful appetizer that brings crispy goodness and a creamy dipping sauce together. This recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun family snack. These little onion bites are easy to make and oh-so-satisfying, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
how to make Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
Ingredients:
For the Onions:
- 12 pieces Cipollini Onions.
For the Buttermilk Dip:
- 1 cup Buttermilk (swap with whole milk mixed with vinegar if desired).
For the Batter:
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Spice Mix (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Dry Mustard, Salt, Black Pepper – adjust for heat).
For Frying:
- 4 cups Oil (vegetable or canola oil for frying).
Directions:
Preparation:
- Prepare the Onions: Begin by trimming the tops and bottoms of the Cipollini onions. Carefully score the sides without cutting through to promote that beautiful blooming effect.
- Soak Onions: If you’re finding it tricky to peel, soak the onions in warm water for a few minutes. This will help loosen the outer layers, making them easier to handle.
- Mix Buttermilk: In one bowl, pour some buttermilk.
- Combine Spices and Flour: In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour and your spice mix (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper).
- Double-Coat the Onions: Dip each onion into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the seasoned flour. For an extra crispy layer, dip them back in the buttermilk and dredge in the flour again.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible to ensure the right temperature for frying.
- Fry the Onions: Carefully place the onions cut-side down in the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and Season: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried onions to a plate lined with paper towels. Season immediately with salt and pepper while they are hot.
- Serve: Enjoy these crispy delights warm, served alongside the creamy buttermilk ranch dip for a perfect finishing touch! Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor!
how to serve Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
Serve these crispy blooming onions fresh and warm with a side of buttermilk ranch dip. They make a great appetizer or snack. You can add some fresh herbs on top for color or serve with extra dipping sauce for those who love more flavor.
how to store Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best eaten fresh, but you can reheat them in an oven to get them crispy again. The buttermilk ranch dip can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
tips to make Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
- Make sure to heat the oil to the right temperature for the best frying results.
- For extra crunch, make sure to double-coat the onions with buttermilk and flour.
- You can experiment with the spice mix to suit your taste, adding more or less heat.
variation (if any)
You can try using different types of onions such as regular yellow onions or sweet onions for a different flavor. Additionally, you can add more spices to the flour mixture or change the dipping sauce to a different dressing if you want to mix things up.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular onions instead of Cipollini onions?
Yes, you can substitute regular yellow or white onions, but the blooming effect may differ.
2. Can I make the buttermilk dip in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
3. What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works well for frying because they have a high smoke point and won’t affect the flavor of the onions.
Bite-Sized Blooming Onions with Buttermilk Ranch Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and delicious bite-sized blooming onions served with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Cipollini Onions
- 1 cup Buttermilk (or whole milk mixed with vinegar)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Spice Mix (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Dry Mustard, Salt, Black Pepper)
- 4 cups Oil (vegetable or canola oil for frying)
Instructions
- Trim the tops and bottoms of the Cipollini onions and carefully score the sides.
- Soak the onions in warm water for a few minutes to loosen the outer layers.
- Pour buttermilk into a bowl.
- Mix all-purpose flour and spice mix in another bowl.
- Double-coat the onions by dipping in buttermilk, dredging in seasoned flour, then dipping back into buttermilk and dredging again.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the onions cut-side down for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with buttermilk ranch dip, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying. Double-coating the onions enhances crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
