The Ultimate Homemade Onion Rings Recipe
Crispy, golden-brown onion rings with a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating. Perfect as a snack, side, or appetizer that will rival any restaurant favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large sweet onions Vidalia or yellow onions, cut into ½-inch rings
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk
- 1 cup cold sparkling water or beer for extra crispiness
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs optional, for an extra crunch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce optional
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel the onions and cut them into ½-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and place them in a bowl of ice water. This helps reduce the sharp bite and keeps them crispier. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, beaten egg, and cold sparkling water or beer. Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth.
- Remove the onions from the water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dip each onion ring into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. If using panko breadcrumbs, immediately coat the battered ring in the breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onion rings in small batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.