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Tennessee Onions Better than Onion Rings

A delightful dish that captures the essence of southern comfort food, featuring tender, sweet onion rings coated in a spiced batter and fried to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the onion rings
  • 4 large large onions, sliced into 1/4-inch rings Yellow onions or sweet onions can be used.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • to taste amount Vegetable oil, for frying Use enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the onion rings in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and enhance flavor.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat, ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the onion rings.
  2. Remove onion rings from buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture.
  3. Fry the onion rings in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
  4. Drain fried onion rings on paper towels to absorb excess oil and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, soak onions for longer if possible. Monitor oil temperature to avoid burning. Serve with ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, salsa, or guacamole.