Onion Rings

Onion rings are a popular appetizer at restaurants, but you can make them at home. The secret to the best onion rings is an unexpectedly easy one—and no, it's not to buy an industrial fryer! A long soak in buttermilk in the fridge firms up the onion slices for frying and mellows their flavor. If you're looking for onion recipes, try this as a side dish. Serve them as a game day snack or pair with hot dogs and burgers as an alternative to French fries. Fry up these onion rings just before everyone sits down to eat; they're best served piping hot with homemade ranch, ketchup, or even burger sauce.

What's the secret to deep frying at home?

The best way to get golden, crispy results when frying is to cook in small batches. When a big batch is added, the temperature of the oil drops, so foods can absorb more oil and become greasy. Big batches are also more likely to stick together and cook unevenly. In this recipe, the onion rings should have enough room in each batch to be in a single layer in the pot. 

What can you use instead of buttermilk?

Out of buttermilk? Before you make a mad dash to the supermarket to grab some, try a buttermilk substitute like adding vinegar or lemon juice to some milk. These simple swaps work like a charm!

Why are my onion rings not crispy?

It's important that your oil is at the right temperature before dropping in the onion rings to fry. If the oil is too cool, the onion rings won't crisp up and may end up soggy. If the oil is too hot, the onion rings may brown too quickly and burn. Aim for 375 degrees Fahrenheit for these.

How do you check the temperature of frying oil?

A probe thermometer or candy thermometer is the best tool for getting the right temperature (be sure not to use a meat thermometer, which isn't made for high temps). If you don't have one, let the oil heat up for about five to eight minutes. Add a small piece of bread; it should brown in 40 to 50 seconds. Remember that the oil will get hotter the longer it sits on the heat. Keep checking the temperature and adjust the heat of the stove as needed.