Ingredients
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Soak the onions: Place the sliced onion rings into a large bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing them to absorb the flavor and become tender.
- Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine all the dry ingredients.
- Coat the onions: After the onions have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk and dredge each onion ring into the flour mixture, making sure they are fully coated. You can use a fork or tongs for this step.
- Fry the onions: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the coated onion rings in batches. Fry them until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried onion rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!
Enjoy these delicious Tennessee-style onion rings as a side dish, appetizer, or snack!