If you caught the latest episode of Deep South Dining on MPB Think Radio, you know the conversation got deliciously Southern when the topic turned to onion rings. Inspired by the chefs’ love for this crispy classic, here’s a recipe for Southern-Fried Triple-Dipped Onion Rings — golden, crunchy, and full of flavor. Whether you like them thick, thin, or somewhere in between, this recipe delivers that perfect bite every time.
Southern-Fried Triple-Dipped Onion Rings
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet onions (like Vidalia), sliced into ½-inch rings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the onions:
Peel and slice onions into thick rings. Separate the rings and soak in cold water for 15–20 minutes to mellow the bite. Drain and pat dry. - Season the flour:
In a shallow dish, mix flour with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Get creative here and add your own favorites for spice and your own signature flavor. - Make the egg wash:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and whisk in the milk or buttermilk. - Triple dip:
Dredge each onion ring in seasoned flour, then dip in egg wash. Repeat the dip in flour and egg wash two more times, ending with a final coat of seasoned flour. (That’s three dips total!) - Fry ‘em up:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 370°F. Fry onion rings in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels. - Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.