Tennessee Onions are a Southern-style treat, often deep-fried, crispy, and coated in a flavorful batter. They’re similar to onion rings but with a special twist in the batter that makes them crispy and delicious. The term “Tennessee Onions” could refer to a regional style of preparing onions, often served as a side dish or appetizer. They’re perfect for pairing with BBQ, burgers, or as a snack.
Here’s a simple recipe for Tennessee Onions:
Tennessee Onions (Southern Fried Onion Rings)
Ingredients:
- 2 large yellow onions (sweet onions like Vidalia work well)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (for soaking)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying (about 3 cups, depending on your frying pan)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
- Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rings. Gently separate the rings and set them aside in a large bowl.
2. Soak the Onion Rings:
- Pour the buttermilk into a bowl and add the onion rings. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will help the batter stick and give the onions a milder flavor.
3. Prepare the Coating:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Stir to combine.
4. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it. If it sizzles and rises to the top quickly, the oil is ready for frying.
5. Coat the Onion Rings:
- Take the soaked onion rings out of the buttermilk and allow any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is evenly coated. For extra crispy rings, dip them back into the buttermilk and coat them in the flour mixture a second time.
6. Fry the Onion Rings:
- Carefully place the coated onion rings into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry the onion rings for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once all the onion rings are fried, serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley (optional).
- They can be served with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or spicy ketchup.
Storage:
- Leftovers: Fried onion rings are best enjoyed immediately while they’re hot and crispy, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore some of their crispiness.
Tips & Variations:
- For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika to the batter for more flavor depth and a touch of heat.
- Air Fryer Version: If you prefer a lighter version, you can cook these onion rings in an air fryer. Spray them lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Dipping Sauce: A creamy ranch dressing or tangy BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with these crispy onion rings. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo for a bit of a kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Tennessee Onions as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal, such as fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or burgers.
- They also make a great appetizer for a party or family gathering, paired with dipping sauces and cold drinks.
These Tennessee Onions are a crispy, golden treat with a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, they are sure to be a hit! Enjoy!
