Blooming Onion Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet onion
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

1. Peel the onion and cut off the top and bottom. Cut the onion into quarters without cutting all the way through, leaving the bottom intact.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
4. Dredge the onion in the seasoned flour, making sure to get in between the layers.
5. Dip the floured onion in the buttermilk, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Repeat the process by dipping the onion back into the buttermilk and breadcrumbs for a second coating.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C).
8. Carefully lower the coated onion into the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove the onion from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
10. Serve the blooming onion bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce.