Description
These So So Crispy Fried Onion Rings are perfectly golden and crunchy, featuring a flavorful batter and an optional tangy dipping sauce. With a crispy breadcrumb coating and aromatic spices, these fried onion rings make a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup cold sparkling water (or regular cold water)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion Rings: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings and set them aside for battering.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Crack the egg into the mixture, add the cold sparkling water, and stir until the batter is smooth and slightly runny but thick enough to coat the onion rings.
- Prepare the Breading: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. For added flavor, mix in some garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings for even frying.
- Dip and Coat the Onion Rings: Dip each onion ring into the batter, making sure it is fully coated. Then press it into the breadcrumbs to evenly coat the ring with a crunchy layer.
- Fry the Onion Rings: Carefully lower the coated onion rings into the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the crispy onion rings hot alongside the optional dipping sauce. To make the sauce, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, and lemon juice for a flavorful complement.
Notes
- Using cold sparkling water in the batter helps create extra crispiness due to carbonation.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature and prevent soggy onion rings.
- Drain fried onion rings on paper towels to remove excess oil for a crispier texture.
- For gluten-free variation, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- The dipping sauce is optional but adds a tangy and creamy complement to the onion rings.
