Ingredients:
1 large white onion
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1 quart vegetable oil
Chipotle, Thousand Island, or other dipping sauce (optional)
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Whisk the eggs and milk together thoroughly in a separate medium-sized bowl.. Set aside.
Cut off 1/2 inch from the pointy end of the onion, leaving the root end intact. Remove the papery skin.
On a chopping board, place the onion cut-side down. Starting 3/4 inch from the root, make vertical cuts downward all the way to the cutting board, using a sharp knife.
Repeat making vertical cuts about 1/2 inch apart along the edge of the onion, being careful not to overlap with the previous cuts. You should have around 10-15 cuts in total.
Turn the onion over and gently open up the “petals” with your fingers until it resembles a flower. Set aside.
Dip the onion into the reserved flour mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the onion into the reserved egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Give the onion ten minutes to soak in the batter for optimal results.
Return the onion to the flour mixture one more time, ensuring it is completely covered.
To set, put the coated onion on a platter and freeze for thirty to sixty minutes.
Fill a deep fryer or medium saucepan with 3 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place paper towels on a platter and set it away.
Carefully fry the onion in the hot oil for 3-4 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn it over and cook for a few more minutes until golden brown on all sides.
Remove the fried onion from the oil and place it on the prepared plate with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve the Outback Steakhouse Blooming Onion with your choice of optional dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Note: The Blooming Onion is a popular appetizer known for its unique presentation. Be cautious when working with hot oil, and make sure the onion is thoroughly coated and frozen before frying to achieve the desired crispy texture.