Crispy onion rings are a tasty treat that everyone loves! These rings are coated in a crunchy batter and fried until golden brown, making them perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
I can’t resist munching on them while watching a movie! Just dip them in your favorite sauce, and you’ll be smiling with every bite. They’re so easy to make and always a hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are my top pick as they provide a sweet flavor when fried. If you want a milder taste, you could use sweet onions like Vidalia.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for the batter. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can work well!
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang. You can make your own by mixing regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar, or just use plain milk if needed.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work, but they won’t be as crispy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a fun texture twist!
Vegetable Oil: Use any neutral oil with a high smoke point. Canola or peanut oil are great choices. Avoid olive oil for frying as it can burn easily.
How Do I Get The Onion Rings Extra Crispy?
For super crispy onion rings, the technique you use is key! Here’s how to make sure your rings turn out crunchy every time:
- Make sure to coat each onion ring thoroughly in the flour, egg mixture, and panko to create a good layering effect.
- Keep the oil hot! If the temperature drops, the rings will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pot. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Let the fried rings drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Enjoy them immediately for the best texture.
How to Make Crispy Classic Onion Rings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large yellow onions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying the onion rings. If you want them crispy and perfect, frying them in batches is the way to go. In total, plan for approximately 30 minutes to have delicious onion rings ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by peeling the onions and slicing them into rings about 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick. Take your time to separate the rings gently so you don’t break them. Set the onion rings aside on a plate.
2. Make the Dry Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This will be the first coating for your onion rings.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until nicely mixed. This mixture will help the coating stick to the onions.
4. Coat the Onion Rings:
Now it’s time to coat your onion rings! Start by dipping each ring into the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the floured rings into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the rings with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick.
5. Heat the Oil:
Add vegetable oil to a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). This is needed for frying. Use enough oil to submerge the rings comfortably.
6. Fry the Onion Rings:
Carefully place the coated onion rings into the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overloading the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in less crispy rings.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once the onion rings are fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Let them drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil. Serve your crispy onion rings hot, paired with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious treat!
Enjoy these crispy, golden delights anytime you want a tasty snack or side dish!
Can I Use Red Onions Instead of Yellow Onions?
Absolutely! Red onions will give a slightly different flavor and color but will still taste delicious. Just keep in mind they might be a bit sharper in taste.
How Do I Make Onion Rings Gluten-Free?
You can easily make gluten-free onion rings by swapping out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring that the panko breadcrumbs are also gluten-free. Many stores offer gluten-free options now!
Can I Air Fry the Onion Rings Instead of Deep Frying?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the onion rings in a single layer in the basket (you may need to work in batches) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Onion Rings?
To keep leftover onion rings crispy, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some of that crunch!
