Tennessee Onions are a delicious Southern dish that combines the sweetness of onions with a crispy, golden batter. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these crispy onion rings are infused with a tangy, zesty flavor, making them an irresistible treat. Deep-fried to perfection, they deliver a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory taste with every bite. This recipe is easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and is guaranteed to impress your guests at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a party, these Tennessee Onions will be the star of the show.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup buttermilk for soaking
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the onions and cutting them into thick rings, about 1/2-inch wide. Separate the rings and set them aside in a large bowl.
- Pour 1 cup of buttermilk over the onion rings and allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps tenderize the onions and infuses them with flavor.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir the ingredients together until well blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and the remaining 1 cup of buttermilk until smooth.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings.
- Once the oil is hot, take each soaked onion ring and dip it first into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Then, coat the onion ring thoroughly in the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well.
- Carefully drop the battered onion rings into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cooked onion rings from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Continue the process until all the onion rings are fried to perfection.
- Optionally, garnish the Tennessee Onions with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.
- Serve the Tennessee Onions hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo. Enjoy!
Tennessee Onions are the epitome of Southern comfort food, offering a crispy and savory snack that’s hard to resist. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy coating and tender onion, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish or a standalone snack, they are sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today for an unforgettable taste of the South!