Onion Flowers

Nearly every one of Shakespeare’s 154 sonnets makes some mention of flowers—roses, most frequently of all. Just imagine, then, how rhapsodic he would have waxed at the sight of Trader Joe’s Onion Flowers! “From sav’ry snackings we desire increase/That these breaded Onions might be air-fried/But appetizers should by time release/At Trader Joe’s, where they can be tried,” he might have said. Of course, since the Bard of Avon sadly never had access to a Trader Joe’s, we’ll simply have to wax for him—as will you, once you try these crispy, crunchy, blossom-cut Onions for yourself.

This classic appetizer is brought to us by a supplier in Thailand, who cuts each Onion into an attractive, flower- like pattern, dunks it in a savory-spiced (and also, as it happens, vegan) batter, and fries it to a golden brown. At home, it takes less than 15 minutes in an air-fryer (or a little longer in a conventional oven) to crisp up beautifully. We recommend serving them as hearty hors d’oeuvres at a game day get-together, cocktail party, or board game night. We also emphatically recommend pairing them with something savory, spicy, and/or creamy to dunk the Onion “petals” into—our (also vegan) Spicy Dynamite Sauce is always an excellent option.