Outback Bloom Petals hold a special place in the hearts of many as a beloved appetizer from Outback Steakhouse. These delightful, smaller versions of the iconic Bloomin’ Onion offered a perfect crispy, seasoned bite. Although the original Outback Bloom Petals have been discontinued, the good news is you can recreate this fantastic experience right in your own kitchen! This comprehensive guide provides you with an easy-to-follow, step-by-step copycat recipe for onion petals, ensuring you can enjoy the same irresistible crunch and flavor at home. You’ll learn precisely how to prepare and cut the onions into perfect petals, coat them in a savory, seasoned flour mixture, deep-fry them to golden perfection, and serve them with a delectable homemade Outback-style bloom sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic appetizer!
🧅 How to Make Outback Bloom Petals at Home
Crafting these crispy fried onion petals at home is surprisingly straightforward, allowing you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust flavors to your preference. This recipe focuses on delivering that authentic Outback taste and texture. Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare your kitchen for a fun and delicious culinary adventure.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Onion Petals:
To embark on your journey to create the best blooming onion petals recipe, you’ll need a selection of fresh and pantry staples. Here’s what’s required:
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia onions are highly recommended for their mild flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (the foundation for our crispy coating)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (use regular for a classic flavor or smoked paprika for an extra smoky depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a pungent, aromatic kick)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a hint of spicy warmth; adjust to your heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste, enhancing all the other flavors)
- 2 large eggs (crucial for binding the coating)
- 1 cup milk (creates the wet batter for a perfectly adhered crust)
- Oil for frying (refined peanut oil or vegetable oil are excellent choices for deep frying due to their high smoke points)
- Bloom sauce (either a store-bought option like Sweet Baby Ray’s Secret Sauce or a homemade version, which we’ll discuss later)
Feel empowered to experiment with the seasonings. You can add a pinch of onion powder, a dash of dried oregano, or a touch more cayenne to tailor the flavor profile perfectly to your liking. Beyond ingredients, having the right kitchen tools will make the process smoother. Ensure you have a sharp knife for precise cuts, a sturdy cast iron Dutch oven or a deep pot for frying, a meat thermometer to monitor oil temperature, and a slotted spoon or spider for safe handling of the fried petals.
How to Cut Onion Petals Like a Pro
To achieve the signature bloom petals style, precise onion cutting is key. Begin by peeling your large sweet onion, then carefully trim off both the stem and root ends. Next, place the onion flat on your cutting board and slice it into approximately 12 even wedges. With a small, sharp knife, gently remove the tough inner cores from each wedge; these can be saved for stocks or other recipes. Finally, separate the individual layers of each onion wedge to create distinct petals. This preparation ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
The Ultimate Onion Petals Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Once your onion is perfectly prepped and your ingredients are laid out, it’s time to bring these crispy delights to life. Follow these detailed instructions to create the ultimate fried onion petals that rival your favorite restaurant appetizer:
Prepare the onion by cutting it into individual petals as described in the “How to Cut Onion Petals” section above. Ensure the petals are separated and set them aside.
Carefully fill a cast iron Dutch oven or a deep, heavy-bottomed pot with about 1½-2 inches (approximately 3.8-5 cm) of frying oil. Place the pot over medium heat on your stovetop and heat the oil to a precise 400°F (200°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately monitor the oil temperature, as maintaining the correct heat is crucial for crispy, non-greasy results.
In a large, shallow bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined, creating your wet batter.
Execute the dredging process for each onion petal: first, dip a petal into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, immerse the petal in the egg and milk mixture. Finally, return the petal to the dry flour mixture for a second coating, pressing lightly to ensure a thick, even crust. This double-dredging technique is key to achieving that signature crispy texture.
Carefully place the coated onion petals into the preheated oil, working in two batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and lowering the oil temperature too much. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are exceptionally crispy. If your oil is deep enough, you might not need to flip them. After each batch, allow the oil to return to 400°F (200°C) before frying the next set of petals.
Once fried, use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer the hot Outback Bloom Petals to a plate lined with paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off, keeping them perfectly crisp. Let them cool slightly before serving immediately with your preferred bloom sauce for the best taste and texture.
While bloomin’ onion petals are undeniably best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, an air fryer or oven will help restore some of their crispiness, though they won’t be quite the same as fresh out of the fryer.
Blooming Onion Petals: An Air Fryer Alternative
For those looking for a slightly lighter version without sacrificing too much crunch, making air fryer blooming onion petals is an excellent alternative. After coating your onion petals as directed in the recipe, lightly spray them with cooking spray on all sides. Arrange the petals in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the onion is tender and the coating is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Remember to flip the onion pieces halfway through the air frying time to ensure even cooking and browning. This method significantly reduces the amount of oil used while still delivering a satisfyingly crunchy appetizer.
➕ The Secret Behind Outback Bloom Sauce
No Outback Bloom Petals experience is complete without its signature dipping sauce. Outback’s Bloom Sauce is renowned for its creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy profile, making it the perfect accompaniment for fried onions. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, most copycat versions and commercial substitutes typically blend mayonnaise, sour cream, a hint of horseradish for that distinctive kick, ketchup for a touch of sweetness and tang, and various other seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. For a convenient alternative, Sweet Baby Ray’s Secret Sauce offers a similar flavor profile with its spicy horseradish notes and makes a fantastic stand-in for the original bloom sauce.
Beyond Bloom Sauce: Other Delicious Dipping Ideas
While the classic bloom sauce is undeniably perfect, don’t hesitate to explore other dipping options to complement your homemade onion petals. Here are a few versatile ideas that pair wonderfully:
- Ketchup: A timeless favorite that’s always a hit.
- Ranch dressing: Its creamy, herbaceous flavor offers a delightful contrast.
- Keto cheese sauce: For a rich and savory experience.
- Vegan honey mustard recipe: A sweet and tangy option that caters to various dietary preferences.
FAQs About Outback Bloom Petals & Bloomin’ Onions
What Were Bloom Petals at Outback?
Outback Bloom Petals were a popular appetizer served at Outback Steakhouse. They consisted of crispy, seasoned pieces of onion, battered and deep-fried to a golden brown, offering a smaller, more bite-sized version of their famous Bloomin’ Onion. These fried onion slices were always served with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce, typically known as “bloom sauce.”
Does Outback Still Serve Bloomin’ Onions?
Yes, Outback Steakhouse proudly continues to serve its iconic Bloomin’ Onion. This popular appetizer features a whole large onion skillfully cut to resemble a blooming flower, battered, deep-fried to perfection, and presented with its special dipping sauce.
Are Outback Bloom Petals Discontinued?
Unfortunately, yes. Outback Steakhouse officially discontinued its Bloom Petals appetizer. This was confirmed by Outback Steakhouse on their social media. Similarly, Arby’s also discontinued their onion petals, replacing them with standard onion rings.
How Can I Make a Healthier Baked Onion Petals Recipe?
To prepare baked onion petals as a healthier alternative, first coat your onion slices in a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. Instead of deep frying, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at around 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Serve immediately with your favorite lighter dipping sauce.
Are Bloomin’ Onions Free on Mondays at Outback?
Outback Steakhouse occasionally offers promotions for a free Bloomin’ Onion with a purchase on select Mondays throughout the year. To take advantage of this, customers typically need to say “Bloomin’ Monday” to their server. It’s always a good idea to check your local Outback Steakhouse’s website or social media for their latest promotions. They might also offer special deals, such as a free Bloomin’ Onion on National Onion Day (June 27th).
👩🏻🍳 More Irresistible Onion Recipes
The deliciousness of Outback bloomin’ onion recipes extends beyond just petals! Onions are incredibly versatile and can be the star of many other delightful dishes. If you love the savory flavor of onions, here are a few other easy recipes featuring this humble yet flavorful vegetable to inspire your next meal:
- Crispy Air Fryer Onions: A quick and easy way to get perfectly tender and slightly caramelized onions with minimal oil.
- Keto Onion Rings (Air Fryer): Enjoy a low-carb twist on a classic, made delightfully crispy in your air fryer.
- Air Fryer Sausage and Peppers: A hearty meal featuring beautifully cooked onions alongside savory sausage and colorful bell peppers.
Watch How to Make It!
While the original recipe included a video player, for this HTML-only version, we encourage you to follow the detailed written instructions provided below to create these delicious bloom petals.
Outback Bloom Petals (Fried Onion Petals Recipe)
By Summer Yule
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
10 mins
10 mins
Side Dish, Appetizer
American
4
401
kcal
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet onion (Vidalia onion for best results)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- oil for frying (e.g., refined peanut oil or vegetable oil)
- bloom sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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Instructions
- Peel the onion and carefully cut off both the stem and root ends. Slice the onion into 12 even wedges and remove the tough middles (cores), which you can reserve for another dish. Gently separate the cut onion into individual pieces to form petals, then set them aside.
- Fill a cast iron Dutch oven or a deep, heavy pot with about 1½-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) of frying oil (approximately 1½ quarts). Heat the oil to 400°F (200°C) over medium heat on your stovetop, using a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- In a large, shallow bowl, thoroughly mix the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create the wet batter.
- For each onion petal, first dip it into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg and milk mixture. Finally, return it to the flour mixture for a thorough second coating, pressing gently to ensure the batter adheres well.
- Carefully deep-fry the coated petals in the heated oil for 4-5 minutes per side, using a slotted spoon or strainer to flip them if necessary. (If the oil level is deep enough, flipping may not be required.) Fry in two batches to maintain optimal oil temperature, reheating the oil to 400°F (200°C) between batches.
- Transfer the fried Outback bloom petals to a plate lined with paper towels to cool and drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite bloom sauce for the best flavor and crispness.
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Equipment
- Sharp Kitchen Knife
- Cast Iron Dutch Oven (or deep pot)
- Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer
- Kitchen Thermometer (for oil temperature)
Notes
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 3 recipe (suitable for weight maintenance and active lifestyles when consumed in moderation). Outback bloomin’ onion petals are essentially deep-fried onion slices or pieces coated in white flour. While they offer exceptional flavor and a satisfying crunch, they are generally not considered a particularly healthy option in terms of overall nutrition due to the deep-frying method and the potential for high caloric intake if consumed excessively.
In summary, these delicious petals should be enjoyed as an occasional treat due to their potential impact on health when consumed in large quantities. If you’re seeking healthier alternatives, consider incorporating fresh, raw, or lightly cooked onions into your diet. Additionally, you can significantly reduce added oil by oven baking or air frying your bloom petals, as discussed in the section above.
Nutrition information is an estimate for one serving, and can vary depending on the size of the onion, how much of the batter adheres, and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
Nutrition Info Disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and is offered as a courtesy. It may differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients you choose. Calorie information on food labels can sometimes be inaccurate, so please don’t get overly focused on the exact numbers.
“To taste” means to your personal preferences, but always ensure to follow food safety rules, especially when it comes to cooking temperatures. Please do not consume undercooked food.
Nutrition
Calories: 401kcal
Carbohydrates: 28.2g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 30.3g
Saturated Fat: 4.7g
Potassium: 122.8mg
Fiber: 2.1g
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 0.1% DV
Calcium: 5.6% DV
Iron: 2.1% DV
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