“Bloomin’ Onion”

Ingredients:

– 1 large sweet onion (like a Vidalia)
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– Oil for frying

### Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Onion:**
– Peel the onion, leaving the root end intact. Cut off the top (stem end).
– Place the onion on a cutting board, root-side up. Starting 1/2 inch from the root, make a downward cut all the way through to the bottom. Repeat to make 12-16 evenly spaced cuts around the onion.
– Turn the onion over and gently spread the “petals” apart.

2. **Make the Breading:**
– In a large bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.

3. **Coat the Onion:**
– Dip the onion into the milk mixture, ensuring it gets between the petals.
– Transfer the onion to the flour mixture, coating thoroughly. You may need to use your hands to get the flour mixture into the layers.
– Repeat the process, dipping back into the milk and then into the flour mixture again for a thicker coating.

4. **Fry the Onion:**
– Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
– Carefully lower the onion into the hot oil, cut-side down. Fry for 3-4 minutes, then turn it over and fry for another 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
– Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5. **Prepare the Dipping Sauce:**
– While the onion is frying, mix all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. **Serve:**
– Place the blooming onion on a plate and serve with the dipping sauce in the center or on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Bloomin’ Onion!