looks like you are 90% there, you are already emitting from a surface, in this case a sphere.., all you need do is use the correct particle with this set up.

use the correct ramp and get the colours right, not that solid default shader colour, add PP opacity, maybe blobby particles, ???

gravity at positive Y, or use a drag fild..,

add turbulence

look at the free tut, ring of fire.., you will get there

or the easy way.., select your object.., go to the menu with FIRE written in it.., go click.., and hey presto.., instant fire.., good starting point for what you need, remember.., its hardware particles if you use the default fire.