Name: Buttermilk Onion Rings
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 serving(s)
Ingredients: Vegetable oil; 1 c. all-purpose flour; 1/3 c. fine cornmeal; 3/4 c. cornstarch; 1 tsp. baking powder; 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 tsp. smoked paprika; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 3/4 c. buttermilk; 1/4 c. seltzer; 2 large Vidalia onions, cut into 1/2"-thick rings; Kosher salt, for sprinkling; Ketchup, for serving; Mayonnaise, for serving

Step 1In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat 1" oil to 375°. Line a large plate or baking sheet with paper towels.

Step 2In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cornstarch, baking powder, pepper, and paprika. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, and seltzer.

Step 3Thoroughly coat onion rings in flour mixture, then dip in egg mixture. Shake off excess, then coat in flour mixture again. Place on cooling rack until ready to fry.

Step 4Carefully lower onion rings into oil in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry until deeply golden, flipping once, 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 5Transfer to prepared plate and immediately sprinkle with salt. Serve hot with ketchup and mayonnaise, if desired.