LIGHT AND CRISPY ONION RINGS – A HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE
Typically, onion rings are made using a pancake-like batter that soaks up a lot of oil, resulting in a heavy, greasy dish. This lighter version yields much crispier onion rings with less oil absorption.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 min (+ soaking time)
🍳 Cook Time: 10 min
🍽️ Yields: 3-4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 large onions
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornmeal
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- Buttermilk (enough to cover onion rings)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Peel onions and slice into 0.5 cm thick rounds. Separate rings from the first 4-5 largest rings of each slice.
- Save remaining onion pieces refrigerated for other dishes.
- Place onion rings in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to soak.
- Heat plenty of oil in a deep pan or fryer until hot.
- In a wide plate, mix flour, cornmeal, poppy seeds, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
- Drain onion rings from buttermilk and dredge on both sides in the flour mixture.
- Fry rings in hot oil for about 1 minute or until golden and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spatula and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Serve immediately with a bowl of buttermilk-based dip.
💡 Tips
- Use fresh buttermilk for best soaking and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning in the coating mix to taste.
- Serve with garlic or herb-flavored dips for extra zest.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
🎉 Perfect For
- Light appetizers
- Party snacks
- Crispy side dishes
- Healthier fried treats
📝 Final Thoughts
This light and crispy onion rings recipe offers a deliciously crunchy snack that’s less greasy and more satisfying. Perfect for those craving fried goodness without the heaviness.