These onion rings are crispy, golden treats that are perfect for snacking or serving with burgers. They have a tasty crunch that keeps you coming back for more!
Making these is so easy; just dip onion slices in batter and fry them up! I can’t resist stealing a few right off the plate before they even hit the table. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Yellow onions are great for a sweet flavor, but you can also use sweet onions for a milder taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, red onions work too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an amazing crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture won’t be as light and crispy.
Buttermilk: If you can’t find buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. This works just as well!
Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose oils with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil. Olive oil isn’t ideal here due to its lower smoke point.
How Do You Get Extra Crispy Onion Rings?
Getting crispy onion rings is all about the preparation and frying technique. Make sure every ring is well coated, and a double dip in the flour and panko can really help!
- Start with cold buttermilk to keep the batter thick.
- Use a heavy pot to maintain oil temperature; too thin might lead to soggy rings.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; this helps maintain that crispy texture.
- Keep your oil between 350°F – 375°F. A kitchen thermometer can be handy for this.
Once fried, let them drain on paper towels; this helps reduce greasiness. Enjoy those perfectly crispy rings!
How to Make Crispy Onion Rings
Ingredients List:
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large onions (yellow or sweet), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or cayenne pepper for a little spice
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for frying, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. You’ll have crunchy, delicious onion rings ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by separating the onion slices into individual rings. This will help them cook evenly and be super crispy. Set them aside for now.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and if you’re using it, the paprika or cayenne pepper. This mix is key for flavor and crispiness!
3. Create the Wet Mixture:
In another bowl, beat together the buttermilk and egg. This will coat the onions nicely and help the flour stick.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings—at least 2-3 inches deep.
5. Coat the Onion Rings:
Now it’s time to get those onion rings ready! Dip each ring into the flour mixture first, making sure it’s well-coated. Next, dunk it into the buttermilk mixture, and then coat it again in the panko breadcrumbs for that famous crunch. If you want them extra thick, repeat this step!
6. Fry the Rings:
Carefully place the battered onion rings into the hot oil, but don’t overcrowd the pot to keep the temperature steady. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once they’re cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil and drain them on paper towels. This helps get rid of any excess oil.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your onion rings hot with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect as a snack or a side dish. Enjoy the crispy goodness!
Can I Use Other Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow and sweet onions work great, you can also use red onions for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of yellow and sweet onions typically makes for a more mellow taste.
Can I Make Onion Rings Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the onion rings by coating them in the batter and then refrigerate them for up to a few hours before frying. Just make sure to fry them right before serving for the best crispiness!
How Can I Store Leftover Onion Rings?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauce Options?
Onion rings are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces! Classic choices include ketchup and ranch dressing, but you could also try BBQ sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick!
