Begin by cutting your sweet onions into bite-sized wedges, ensuring the layers remain intact for that perfect blooming effect. Once sliced, soak them in buttermilk for 10 minutes in a bowl.

While the onions soak, prepare a flavorful coating. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly. In another dish, pour in the panko breadcrumbs.

Once the soaking time is up, remove the onion wedges from the buttermilk and shake off the excess liquid. First, dip each wedge into the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Next, return the wedges to the buttermilk before rolling them in the panko breadcrumbs.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated onion wedges into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

While the onions are frying, whip up your zesty dipping sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, smoked paprika, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Once all the Bite-Sized Blooming Onions are fried and crispy, arrange them beautifully on a platter. Serve hot alongside the zesty dipping sauce.