American·Appetizer
Deep-Fried Awesome Blossom Onion Bites
A much easier and less messy alternative to the classic restaurant onion blossom, these fritter-style bites feature a tender, seasoned interior and an extra-crunchy exterior. They are served with a signature tangy horseradish dipping sauce.
Prep
25m
Cook
15m
Total
40m
Serves
4
Method
- 01
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, ketchup, and a few shakes of cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning, then refrigerate until needed.
Watch · 0:43
- 02
Dice the onion and transfer 2 cups into a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt and toss to combine. Let the onions sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse thoroughly in a strainer under cold water and drain well.
Watch · 1:33
- 03
Transfer the drained onions to a dry bowl. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder. Stir in the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and baking powder until the onions are coated.
Watch · 3:57
- 04
Add the milk to the onion mixture and stir until a very thick batter forms. If the batter is too thin, add a bit more flour; if too thick, add a splash of milk. Let the batter rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Watch · 4:50
- 05
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F. Use a sorbet scoop or spoons to drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding.
Watch · 8:32
- 06
Fry the bites for about 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned and crispy. Flip a second time if needed for extra browning. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.
Watch · 9:48
- 07
Serve the hot onion bites immediately alongside the chilled blossom sauce garnished with a final shake of cayenne.
Watch · 11:54
From Chef John
“You are after all the Michael Scott of what this got.”
“Vegetables you salt before you cook them always, almost every time taste better.”
“Imagine the best onion ring you've ever had, except a little bit better.”