Tennessee Onions are a delightful, crispy treat that combines the richness of Southern flavors with the perfect blend of spices. A popular appetizer or side dish, these golden fried onions are seasoned with a unique twist that captures the essence of Tennessee cuisine. Whether you’re looking for an addition to your BBQ spread or a simple snack, these onions are a surefire hit. This recipe guides you through the process of preparing Tennessee Onions from start to finish, ensuring a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 large onions (preferably yellow or sweet onions)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for extra kick)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Begin by peeling and slicing the onions into ¼-inch thick rings. Make sure the rings are uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Stir gently to mix.
- Place the onion rings into the buttermilk mixture and let them soak for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the onions are soaking, prepare the dry coating by combining flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- After the onions have soaked, carefully remove them from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, making sure each ring is coated evenly. For extra crispiness, you can double coat the onion rings by dipping them back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be enough to fully submerge the onion rings.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the coated onion rings into the oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the onions for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even frying.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining onion rings until all are crispy and golden.
- Serve your crispy Tennessee Onions hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy ketchup.
Tennessee Onions offer a satisfying crunch with a burst of flavor in every bite. Their crispy, seasoned exterior and tender interior make them the perfect accompaniment to any Southern-inspired meal. Enjoy these savory bites as a side dish at your next family gathering or serve them as an appetizer at your next party. With their perfect blend of spices and crunchy goodness, Tennessee Onions are bound to become a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for more.