Crispy onion straws are a delightful and addictive appetizer or snack that combines the perfect balance of crunchiness and savory flavor. These thin and golden strips of onions are coated in a light and crispy batter, resulting in a delicious treat that is hard to resist.
The process of making crispy onion straws involves slicing onions into thin strips and then dipping them in a seasoned flour mixture or batter. The onions are then fried until they turn golden brown and achieve a satisfying crunch. The end result is a plateful of irresistible onion straws that are full of flavor and texture.
Crispy Onion Straws
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 large onion
- 1-2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Peel the onion and cut it into the thinnest slices you can.2. Place the onion in a bowl and cover with buttermilk allowing it tosoak for 20 minutes.3. Combine the dry fixings in a shallow bowl.4. Working one at a time, shake off any extra buttermilk and dredgethe onions through the flour mix.5. Cook at 360 degrees for 8 minutes, trembling often.
- Place the onion in a bowl and cover with buttermilk allowing it to soak for 20 minutes.
- Combine the dry fixings in a shallow bowl.
- Working one at a time, shake off any extra buttermilk and dredge the onions through the flour mix.
- Cook at 360 degrees for 8 minutes, trembling often.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Some frequently asked questions about crispy onion straws
Here are some frequently asked questions about crispy onion straws:
1. What kind of onions should I use for crispy onion straws?
You can use yellow or sweet onions for crispy onion straws. These varieties have a milder flavor and are ideal for frying. However, you can also use red onions if you prefer a slightly stronger taste.
2. How do I achieve thin and crispy onion straws?
To achieve thin and crispy onion straws, it’s important to slice the onions very thinly. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to get thin, uniform slices. Thinner slices tend to crisp up better during frying.
3. Can I make crispy onion straws without a deep fryer?
Yes, you can make crispy onion straws without a deep fryer. Simply heat oil in a deep skillet or pot until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). You can use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Fry the onion straws in batches, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly.
4. What type of oil is best for frying crispy onion straws?
Vegetable oil or canola oil is commonly used for frying crispy onion straws due to their high smoke point and neutral flavor. These oils work well for achieving a crispy texture. However, you can also use other oils with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil or sunflower oil.
5. How long should I fry the onion straws?
The frying time can vary depending on the thickness of the onion slices and the temperature of the oil. In general, it takes about 2-4 minutes for the onion straws to become golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them and adjust the frying time as needed, ensuring they don’t burn.
6. How do I keep the onion straws crispy after frying?
To keep the onion straws crispy after frying, place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Avoid stacking them immediately, as this can cause them to become soggy. If necessary, you can reheat them briefly in a preheated oven to regain their crispiness.
7. Can I make crispy onion straws in advance?
While crispy onion straws are best enjoyed fresh, you can make them in advance. After frying, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, note that they may lose some of their crispiness over time.
8. Can I add seasonings to the onion straws?
Absolutely! You can add seasonings to the onion straws to enhance their flavor. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the desired seasonings over the onion straws immediately after frying, while they are still hot.
Crispy onion straws are a delicious and addictive snack that can elevate any meal. With these FAQs, you’ll have the knowledge to make perfectly crispy onion straws and enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or accompaniment. Get ready to savor the satisfying crunch and flavor of homemade crispy onion straws!
Cooking tips
Here are some cooking tips for making Crispy Onion Straws:
1. Use a Mandoline Slicer: To get thin, even slices of onion, it is helpful to use a mandoline slicer. This will save you time and ensure that your onion slices are crispy and uniform.
2. Soak the Onions: Soak the onion slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to remove the starch and prevents the onion from burning while cooking.
3. Drain and Pat Dry: After soaking the onions, drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause the onions to steam instead of crisp up.
4. Use High Smoke Point Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or peanut oil, for frying. This will help ensure that the oil stays at the right temperature and does not burn the onion straws.
5. Fry in Small Batches: Fry the onions in small batches to ensure that they cook evenly and do not clump together. This also ensures that the oil stays at the right temperature.
6. Drain on Paper Towels: After frying, drain the onion straws on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
7. Season with Salt and Pepper: While the onion straws are still hot, season them with salt and pepper to taste.
By following these tips, you will end up with perfectly crispy and delicious Crispy Onion Straws. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions for crispy onion straws:
1. Appetizer – Serve them as a starter dish with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a homemade aioli.
2. Side dish – Use them as a side dish for burgers, sandwiches or hot dogs instead of traditional fries.
3. Topping – Sprinkle the crispy onion straws over salads, soups, or casseroles to add a crunchy, flavorful topping.
4. Garnish – Top your favorite dishes like baked potatoes, mac and cheese, or meatloaf with crispy onion straws for an added texture and taste.
5. Snack – Enjoy them as a tasty snack on their own, straight out of the basket. No matter how you serve them, crispy onion straws are sure to be a hit!