Onion rings are a classic snack that never goes out of style. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack, there’s nothing better than biting into a crispy golden onion ring. The perfect onion ring is crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
The best part? They are easy to make at home! In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best crispy golden onion rings from scratch.
Crispy Golden Onion Rings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions (yellow or white) (sliced into rings)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup buttermilk or cold water
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Choosing the Right Onions for Perfect Rings
The first step to making crispy golden onion rings is selecting the right onions. Not all onions are created equal, and the type you choose can make or break your dish.
- Sweet Onions: Varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal because they have a mild, sweet flavor that balances well with the crisp crust.
- Yellow Onions: These are a great alternative if sweet onions aren’t available. They have a stronger flavor but still work well.
- White Onions: These are less common but can be used if you prefer a sharper taste.
When selecting onions, look for firm ones, have no soft spots, and are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking and consistent rings.
Preparing the Onions for Coating
Once you’ve chosen your onions, it’s time to prepare them for coating. This step is crucial for achieving evenly cooked, crispy golden onion rings.
- Peel the Onions: Remove the outer skin and cut off the top and bottom of each onion.
- Slice Evenly: Use a sharp knife to cut the onions into ½-inch thick slices. Thinner slices may burn, while thicker ones might not cook through.
- Separate the Rings: Gently separate the slices into individual rings. Discard the smaller inner pieces or save them for another recipe.
Soak the onion rings in cold water for 10-15 minutes to reduce their sharpness and make them easier to coat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Golden Onion Rings
Step 1.
- Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and paprika in a large bowl.
Step 2.
- Gradually add the cold water or buttermilk, stirring until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
Step 3.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld.
Coating and Frying the Best Onion Rings
Coating and frying your onion rings. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Heat the Oil: Fill a deep skillet or pot with about 2 inches of oil (vegetable or canola oil works well). Heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Double Coating: Dip each onion ring into the batter, letting the excess drip off. You can coat the rings in flour before dipping them in the batter for extra crispiness.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few rings into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain Oil and Cool: Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions for Your Crispy Onion Rings
Crispy golden onion rings are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Combo: Serve them alongside burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches.
- Dipping Sauce: With a variety of dips such as ketchup, ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli.
- Appetizer Platter: Pair them with mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, or jalapeño poppers for a party snack spread.
- Salad: Add a few onion rings to a green salad for a crunchy twist.
Storing and Reheating Onion Rings Leftovers
If you have leftover onion rings, don’t worry! You can store and reheat them to maintain their crispiness.
- Storage: Cool leftover onion rings place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They last up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To restore their crunch, reheat the rings in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-6 minutes.
Conclusion
Making crispy golden onion rings at home is easier than you think! With the right ingredients, techniques, and tips, you can enjoy restaurant-quality onion rings anytime.
Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or snack, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Now, it’s time to grab some onions and start frying!
Nutrition
Total Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 1270mg | Total Carbohydrate: 65g | Dietary Fiber: 4g | Total Sugars: 6g | Protein: 14g | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 265mg | Iron: 4mg | Potassium: 328mg
FAQ
How do you crisp up onion rings?
The best way is simple. Reheat them the same way they were cooked before. Dip them in a hot deep fryer, at about 375 degrees, for 45 seconds. Maybe a little more or less. They were crisp like they were fresh.
Why are my crispy onions soggy?
To prevent soggy fries or onions, use a wide, shallow pan with a thick base for even crisping.
Can I make onion rings without eggs?
Yes! You can use buttermilk or a mixture of flour and water as an egg substitute.
Why are my onion rings not crispy?
The oil might not be hot enough, or the batter might be too thick. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the frying pan.
Can I make onion rings ahead of time?
While they’re best served fresh, you can prepare the batter and slice the onions ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.