What To Know
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the batter for a spicy kick.
- To freeze, place the cooled fried onions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- When ready to use, thaw the onions overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Craving crispy, golden-brown fried onions but don’t have buttermilk on hand? Fear not! This foolproof fried onion recipe without buttermilk will guide you through creating a tantalizing side dish that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and slice the onions into thin rings. Separate the rings and set them aside.
2. Create the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
3. Coat the Onions: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms. Dip the onion rings into the batter, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Fry the Onions: Carefully drop the coated onion rings into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Season: Remove the fried onions from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy fried onions as a side dish with your favorite meals.
Tips for Success
- Use yellow onions for the best flavor and texture.
- Slice the onions thinly for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying.
- Fry the onions in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Onions: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Fried Onions: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic over the fried onions.
- Onion Rings: Cut the onions into thick rings instead of thin slices for a more onion ring-like experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve fried onions as a side dish with grilled meats, chicken, or fish.
- Use them as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
- Add them to soups, stews, or casseroles for extra flavor and texture.
Healthier Options
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Bake the fried onions in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
- Air fry the fried onions at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
“No Buttermilk, No Problem” Conclusion
With this easy-to-follow fried onion recipe without buttermilk, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful fried onions anytime, buttermilk or not. Experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to savor this delectable side dish.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use water instead of milk in the batter?
A: Yes, you can use water as a substitute for milk. However, milk will produce a richer and more flavorful batter.
Q: How long will the fried onions stay crispy?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, fried onions will stay crispy for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I freeze fried onions?
A: Yes, you can freeze fried onions for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cooled fried onions in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, thaw the onions overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
