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Begin by slicing the onions into approximately 1/4-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and set them aside.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and combine it with the buttermilk, creating a wet mixture.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the onion rings.
Dip each onion ring into the wet mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it evenly in the dry flour mixture.
Carefully place the coated onion rings into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve Tennessee Onions hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, barbecue, or a tangy spicy ketchup.
To keep them crispy, serve immediately after frying. If you need to store leftovers, place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain the crunch.
Store any leftover onion rings in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Variations:
Spicy Tennessee Onions: For an extra kick, mix in some hot sauce with the buttermilk or sprinkle extra cayenne pepper on the finished onion rings.
Cheesy Tennessee Onions: Add grated parmesan cheese to the dry flour mixture for a cheesy, savory twist.
Oven-Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the onion rings instead of frying them. Place the coated rings on a baking sheet, spray with olive oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of onion? Yes, you can use sweet onions, such as Vidalia onions, if you prefer a milder flavor. However, yellow onions are typically recommended for a more traditional taste.
Can I prepare the onions in advance? Yes, you can prepare the onion rings, coat them, and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying. This will help the batter stick better when cooking.
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is also gluten-free.
How can I tell if the oil is at the right temperature? To test the oil, drop a small piece of bread or batter into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Tennessee Onions, and impress your guests with this Southern-inspired delicacy!
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