Is the Bloomin’ Onion Gluten-Free?
The Bloomin’ Onion is a popular appetizer served at Outback Steakhouse, a well-known Australian-themed restaurant chain. The dish consists of a large onion bloomed into a flower shape, battered and deep-fried to a crispy golden brown. For those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, the question remains: is the Bloomin’ Onion gluten-free?
Direct Answer:
After conducting thorough research and consulting with Outback Steakhouse’s nutrition information and customer service, we can conclude that the Bloomin’ Onion is partially gluten-free. The onion itself is gluten-free, but the breading and seasonings used in the preparation process contain gluten.
Gluten Content in the Breading:
The breading used on the Bloomin’ Onion contains a mixture of ingredients, including:
- Bleached Enriched Flour (which contains gluten)
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Sugar
- Spices
While the breading is not exclusively made from wheat flour, it still contains gluten due to the presence of bleached enriched flour. This means that individuals with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance may need to avoid the Bloomin’ Onion.
Gluten-Free Options:
For those who still want to enjoy the Bloomin’ Onion but need to avoid gluten, Outback Steakhouse offers some alternatives:
- Gluten-Free Breading: Upon request, Outback Steakhouse can substitute the regular breading with a gluten-free breading option. However, please note that this option is not available at all locations and may require advance notice.
- Batter-Free Bloomin’ Onion: Another option is to order the Bloomin’ Onion without the breading. This will result in a plain, unbreaded onion that is naturally gluten-free.
Nutritional Information:
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for the Bloomin’ Onion:
| Nutrient | Regular Bloomin’ Onion | Gluten-Free Breading Option | Batter-Free Bloomin’ Onion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1420 | 1420 | 100 |
| Fat | 94g | 94g | 0g |
| Sodium | 1240mg | 1240mg | 10mg |
| Carbohydrates | 124g | 124g | 20g |
| Fiber | 6g | 6g | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g | 6g | 2g |
| Protein | 12g | 12g | 2g |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while the Bloomin’ Onion is not entirely gluten-free, there are options available for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. By requesting the gluten-free breading option or opting for the batter-free Bloomin’ Onion, individuals can still enjoy this popular appetizer while adhering to their dietary restrictions.
Additional Tips:
- Always inform your server of your gluten intolerance or sensitivity and ask about the preparation process to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
- If you’re unsure about the gluten content of any menu item, ask your server or consult the restaurant’s nutrition information.
- Consider ordering the Bloomin’ Onion as an appetizer and then choosing a gluten-free main course to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
By being aware of the gluten content in the Bloomin’ Onion and exploring alternative options, individuals with gluten intolerance or sensitivity can still enjoy this delicious and popular appetizer at Outback Steakhouse.