These crispy homemade onion rings are a delightfully crunchy snack or side dish that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving them with a burger, enjoying them as a snack, or sharing them at a gathering, these onion rings are sure to be a hit. With a light, golden batter coating each ring, they have the perfect crunch on the outside and a sweet, tender onion on the inside. They’re simple enough for a quick treat but tasty enough to impress your guests.
Prepare the Onions. Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rings. Separate the rings and set them aside.
Make the Batter. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the milk. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth. If you prefer extra crunch, dip the rings in breadcrumbs after coating them in batter.
Heat the Oil. Pour the vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large skillet until it's about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Onion Rings. Dip each onion ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Drain and Serve. Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil, and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
After the first coating of batter, dip the rings back into the flour and then into the batter again for an extra crispy coating. Chilling the batter in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before frying can help it stick better to the onions and produce a crunchier texture. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder to the batter for an extra kick of flavor.