Description
Crispy, golden fried homemade onion rings that are perfectly seasoned and crunchy on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside. These onion rings are dipped in buttermilk and a flavorful spiced batter before being coated with panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A classic appetizer or side dish that pairs well with burgers, sandwiches, or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Onion and Soaking Mixture
- 1 large sweet or yellow onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
Batter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Coating and Frying
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Oil for frying (canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil – amount as needed for deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion Rings: Slice the onion into 1/2-inch thick rings and separate the rings carefully. Place them in a bowl and soak in the buttermilk mixture (combine buttermilk and egg) for about 15-20 minutes to tenderize and add moisture.
- Make the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a seasoning dry mix.
- Coat the Onion Rings: Remove onion rings from the buttermilk mixture one at a time, dredge them in the dry flour mixture to create a light coating, then dip them back into the buttermilk mixture briefly, and finally coat them thoroughly with panko bread crumbs for an extra crunchy crust.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or frying pan, filling it to about 2-3 inches depth. Heat the oil to approximately 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying conditions to achieve crispy and golden rings without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Onion Rings: Fry the coated onion rings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn the rings carefully.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the onion rings from oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is consistent at around 350°F to avoid greasy onion rings.
- Use panko bread crumbs for extra crunch instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Can substitute buttermilk with milk plus a teaspoon of vinegar if needed.
- Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
- Store leftover onion rings in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Keywords: Onion rings, fried onion rings, homemade onion rings, crispy onion rings, appetizer, snack