Crispy Homemade Onion Rings
Ingredients:
2 large onions (yellow or white), sliced into 1/4-inch rings
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 cup cold sparkling water (or cold club soda)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Prep the Onion Rings:
Peel and slice the onions into 1/4-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and set them aside on a paper towel to dry off any excess moisture.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will form your dry batter mixture.
Create the Batter:
Gradually pour the cold sparkling water into the flour mixture, whisking until smooth and slightly thick. The batter should be thick enough to coat the onion rings without dripping excessively.
Coat the Onion Rings:
Preheat your frying oil in a deep skillet or deep fryer to about 350°F (175°C). You want the oil to be deep enough to submerge the onion rings.
Dip each onion ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, immediately dip the battered ring into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s well-coated for extra crunch.
Fry the Onion Rings:
Carefully place the onion rings into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the onion rings from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the onion rings are frying, prepare the optional dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve:
Serve the crispy onion rings hot, with the dipping sauce on the side, or enjoy them on their own!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings