Crispy Onion Rings

Onion Rings are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and make a classic appetizer or side dish. This recipe serves 4–6.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions, sliced into ½-inch (1.25 cm) rings
• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• 2 cups (120 g) panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Separate the onion slices into rings.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix 1 cup of the flour with the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the remaining ½ cup flour in a separate bowl.
4. In a third bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
5. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a fourth shallow bowl.
6. Dredge each onion ring in the plain flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly in the seasoned panko mixture.
7. Heat 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the onion rings in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
10. Sprinkle with a little extra salt while still hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Barbecue sauce
• Honey mustard
• Spicy mayo

Tips

• Use sweet onions such as Vidalia for the best flavor.
• Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for consistently crispy onion rings.
• Fry in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
• For extra crunch, double-coat the onion rings by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating before frying.