Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that will transport you straight to a cozy Amish kitchen! These homemade crunchy onion rings are not just a side dish – they're a crispy, golden experience that will have everyone at your table begging for more. Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned, extra-crunchy ring with a delicate, tender onion inside, creating a symphony of textures that will make your mouth water. Whether you're hosting a game night, family dinner, or just craving a nostalgic treat, these onion rings are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Peel the onions and slice them into uniform rings approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Separate the rings carefully, discarding the small center pieces or saving them for another recipe.
- In a medium-sized bowl, pour the buttermilk and soak the onion rings for 15-20 minutes. This helps tenderize the onions and helps the coating stick better.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Create a seasoned flour mixture that will provide flavor and crunch.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for perfect frying.
- Remove onion rings from buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each ring thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring complete and even coating.
- Carefully place coated onion rings into the hot oil, working in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove fried onion rings using a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
- Allow rings to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to let the coating set and prevent burning. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a cooking thermometer to maintain the oil at exactly 375°F. Too cool, and your rings will be greasy; too hot, and they'll burn.
- Buttermilk Soak: Don't skip the buttermilk bath! It tenderizes the onions and helps the coating stick perfectly.
- Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rings.
- Drain Properly: Use a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep the rings crispy by allowing excess oil to drip away.
- Seasoning Hack: Add a pinch of cayenne or garlic powder to the flour mixture for an extra flavor kick.
- Oil Choice Matters: Use vegetable or canola oil with a high smoke point for the crispiest results.
- Serve Immediately: Onion rings are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so time your cooking to serve right away.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 655kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 57g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 6mg
