This recipe for classic fried onion rings yields a crispy exterior, with tender onion on the inside! Its straightforward steps and minimal ingredients make it an effortless dish to prepare, ready to snack on in no time at all.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Irresistible crunch. Crispy onion rings offer a satisfyingly crispy texture that adds an enjoyable crunch to every bite. If you love a savory, crunch snack, you should also try my samosas!
- Versatile snack. Whether as a stand-alone appetizer, a tasty side dish, or a delicious burger topping, onion rings can elevate any meal with their savory flavor.
- Flavorful onion center. The combination of a crispy outer coating and a tender, sweet onion center creates a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.
- Easy to customize. Onion rings can be easily seasoned or flavored according to personal preference, allowing for endless variations and creative experimentation in the kitchen!
Ingredients needed
- Onions. Onions provide the sweet and flavorful center of the onion rings.
- All-purpose flour. Flour helps create a crispy coating around the onion rings when combined with other ingredients.
- Plant-based milk. Plant-based milk, such as almond or soy milk, acts as a binder and helps the flour mixture adhere to the onions.
- Cornstarch. Cornstarch adds an extra layer of crispiness to the onion rings when combined with flour.
- Baking powder. Helps the batter puff up slightly, resulting in lighter and airier onion rings.
- Salt and black pepper. To taste
- Optional spices. Additional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can be added to the batter for extra flavor and a touch of heat. Adjust to suit your taste preferences!
- Cooking oil. Cooking oil is needed for deep frying the onion rings, ensuring a golden and crispy exterior.
How to make onion rings
Step 1 – Prepare the onions. Peel the onions and cut them into thick slices. Separate the slices into individual rings and set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the batter mix. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you desire. Whisk together to ensure the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Pour the plant-based milk into a separate bowl.
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Step 3 – Deep frying. Heat cooking oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to around 375°F (190°C). Dip each onion ring into the milk, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure the ring is evenly coated.
Carefully place the coated onion ring into the hot oil. Repeat the process for a few more rings, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pot. Fry the onion rings for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them once during cooking to ensure even browning.
Step 4 – Remove the rings and serve. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried onion rings from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining onion rings.
Serve the onion rings immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Choose the right onions. Opt for large onions with a milder flavor, such as sweet onions or Vidalia onions. Their natural sweetness will complement the crispy coating and enhance the overall taste of the onion rings.
- Batter consistency. Ensure the batter is not too thick or too thin. It should have a smooth and slightly thick consistency that coats the onion rings evenly without being too heavy. Adjust the amount of milk or flour as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Adding some panko bread crumbs can also provide some extra texture to the batter.
- Proper oil temperature. Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy and perfectly cooked onion rings. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the oil and keep it around 375°F (190°C) throughout the frying process. This will help prevent greasiness and ensure a golden and crispy exterior.
- Work in batches. Avoid overcrowding the frying pan or deep fryer. Cook the onion rings in small batches, allowing sufficient space between them. This ensures that they cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
Storage instructions
To store: Allow the onion rings to cool completely to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the onion rings in a preheated oven (at around 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes) or in a toaster oven at a low temperature to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the onion rings soggy.
Recommended tools
- Cooking thermometer. Using a cooking thermometer is essential for this recipe. It ensures the ideal frying temperature, resulting in perfectly crispy and golden vegan onion rings.
- Slotted spoon or tongs. A slotted spoon or tongs will come in handy for removing the rings from the oil safely.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can experiment with alternative flours such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour to suit your dietary preferences. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
While baking can be a healthier alternative, it may not achieve the same level of crispiness as deep frying. However, you can try baking them at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet to promote airflow and crispness. You can also use an air fryer.
Yes, you can use different types of oil for frying, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point to ensure it can withstand the frying temperature without breaking down. Each oil may impart a slightly different flavor to the onion rings, so consider your preference when selecting the oil.
Onion Rings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions Vidalia or white
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup soy milk or alternative
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 inch in pot
Instructions
- Peel the onions and cut them into thick slices. Separate the slices into individual rings and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you desire. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Pour the plant-based milk into a separate bowl.
- Heat cooking oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to around 375°F (190°C). Dip each onion ring into the milk, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure the ring is evenly coated on all sides.
- Carefully place the coated onion ring into the hot oil. Repeat the process for a few more rings, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pot. Fry the onion rings for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them once during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried onion rings from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining onion rings until all are cooked.
- Serve the onion rings immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
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