Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cold buttermilk or milk
  • 2 large sweet onions (e.g., Vidalia), sliced into 1/4-inch rings
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill pan about 2 inches deep)

Instructions:

  1. Slice onions into 1/4-inch rings and separate the rings. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to reduce bitterness (optional).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Gradually add cold buttermilk, mixing until smooth.
  4. Refrigerate batter for 15-30 minutes to thicken and enhance texture.
  5. Fill a deep frying pan with vegetable oil to about 2 inches deep, and heat to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Dip each onion ring into the batter, coating evenly and shaking off excess.
  7. Carefully add coated onion rings to hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Remove rings with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces.