Description
Crispy Fried Onion Rings are a classic American appetizer featuring thick-cut yellow onion slices coated in a seasoned batter and panko breadcrumbs, then deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe yields crunchy, flavorful rings perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
Ingredients
Onions
- 2 large yellow onions (cut into ½-inch thick rings)
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold buttermilk (or regular milk if you don’t have buttermilk)
Breading and Dredging
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Separate the onion slices into individual rings, discarding the small inner rings. Set the rings aside for coating.
- Make the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the cold buttermilk while whisking to create a smooth batter.
- Prepare the breading station: Arrange the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish and the remaining 1 cup of flour in another shallow dish for dredging.
- Coat the onion rings: First, lightly dredge each onion ring in the flour, then dip it into the batter to coat fully. Finally, press the ring into the panko breadcrumbs to adhere the coating evenly.
- Fry the onion rings: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rings in small batches without overcrowding the pan, cooking each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried onion rings and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces such as ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double dip the onion rings by repeating the batter and breadcrumb coating steps.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
- Ensure the oil maintains the correct temperature (350°F) to avoid greasy onion rings.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crunchy texture.
