She Strengthens

The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Onion Rings

Onion Rings Deserve the Spotlight

Poor onion rings often take a backseat to French fries, but it’s time to give them the recognition they deserve. With a super-crisp breadcrumb coating, they’re begging to be dipped in aioli or Buffalo Blue Cheese Spread.

Special Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have a deep-frying/candy thermometer on hand. This crucial tool will ensure your oil reaches the perfect temperature for crispy onion rings.

Semolina Onion Rings: A Delicious Alternative

If you’re looking for a variation, try our Semolina Onion Rings recipe. The semolina flour adds a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Recipe Overview

Yields: 3 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups dry, fine, unseasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced into 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick rounds and separated into single rings
• 2 quarts (8 cups) vegetable oil

Preparation is Key

To begin, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside two additional sheets. In three separate shallow dishes, combine the flour and salt, eggs and milk, and breadcrumbs and remaining salt.

The Breading Process

Toss an onion ring in the flour mixture until evenly coated, then shake off the excess. Next, dip the ring in the egg mixture until coated all over, letting the excess drip off. Finally, toss the ring in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to get the crumbs to adhere, until evenly coated all over. Repeat with the remaining onion rings, placing them in a single layer and making sure they’re not touching.

Frying to Perfection

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F on a deep-frying/candy thermometer. Place a wire rack on a second baking sheet and set aside. Working in batches, carefully drop the onion rings into the hot oil and fry until light golden brown, about 45 seconds. Using tongs, transfer the rings to the wire rack and season immediately with salt. Repeat with the remaining rings and serve immediately.