Choose a large sweet onion
Peel the onion and cut off the top
Leave the root end intact
Place the onion cut-side down
Make one vertical cut down toward the root, stopping before the root
Repeat to make 12 to 16 evenly spaced cuts around the onion
Gently separate the petals
Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper
Whisk eggs and milk in a separate bowl
Dip the onion into the flour mixture
Dip into the egg mixture
Dip back into the flour mixture
Make sure the coating gets between the petals
Heat oil to 375°F
Fry the onion cut-side down first
Fry until golden brown and crisp
Drain on paper towels
Serve with dipping sauce