Ingredients
- 1 large sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 to 2 cups buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the onion and trim a small portion off the top while keeping the root intact. Place root-side down and slice into 12–16 sections without cutting through the root. Gently separate the petals.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, mix eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
- Coat the onion in the flour mixture, making sure to get between the petals. Shake off excess.
- Dip the onion into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it is fully soaked.
- Return the onion to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat oil to 180°C (350°F) in a deep pot.
- Carefully place the onion cut-side down in the oil. Fry for 5–7 minutes, then turn and fry for another 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dipping sauce.
- Serve hot with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use a sweet onion like Vidalia for best flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure oil is at the correct temperature to achieve crispiness.
- Double coating helps create a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Substitute buttermilk with milk and a splash of lemon juice if needed.
- Best served immediately for maximum crispness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg