Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy!
If you’re on a ketogenic diet and have been missing those delicious, crispy onion rings, then you’re in for a treat! These Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! are not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor, making them the perfect snack or side dish. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these crunchy delights that will satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet. Let’s dive into this recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why I Love This Recipe
What’s not to love about crispy onion rings? They are the ultimate comfort food! This recipe makes it easy to enjoy them while adhering to a keto lifestyle. The crispy texture achieved through the perfect batter and frying method elevates the experience, making these onion rings a delightful addition to burgers, salads, or even as a standalone snack. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy!, you’ll need just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 onions (170g, ends and tiny bits discarded)
- 50g whey protein isolate
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon flaked salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sparkling water
- Oil for frying (I recommend avocado oil, ghee, or coconut oil; you’ll need about 2 cups)
Tools & Equipment Needed
To make this recipe a breeze, gather the following tools:
- Sharp knife: For slicing your onions evenly.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface to work on.
- Mixing bowl: To combine your batter ingredients.
- Whisk or fork: For mixing the egg and other wet ingredients.
- Frying pan: A deep skillet or Dutch oven works best for frying.
- Slotted spoon: For removing the onion rings from the oil.
- Paper towels: To drain excess oil from the fried onion rings.
Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! Cooking Guide
Ready to make these crispy delights? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by peeling and slicing your onions into rings. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch for the best crunch.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the whey protein isolate, garlic powder, paprika, flaked salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and sparkling water until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the onion rings but still pourable.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the onion rings about halfway, which typically requires around 2 cups.
Step 5: Coat the Onion Rings
Dip each onion ring into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing it in the hot oil.
Step 6: Fry the Onion Rings
Carefully add the battered onion rings to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and extra crispy.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture!
Variations for Dietary Needs
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences:
- For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based protein powder in place of whey protein isolate.
- Add spices like cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
- For a gluten-free option, double-check that your protein powder and Dijon mustard are gluten-free.
- Make it vegan by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg.
Pro Perspective
If you want to achieve the ultimate crunch, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the onion rings. A good way to test this is by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, you’re ready to fry. Additionally, consider letting your coated onion rings rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This helps the batter adhere better, resulting in a crunchier finish.
Best Ways to Store
These Keto Onion Rings are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.
Quick Q&A
Can I bake these onion rings instead of frying?
While frying gives them that classic crunch, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just keep in mind they may not be as crispy as fried ones.
What can I serve with these onion rings?
These onion rings pair wonderfully with keto-friendly dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy chipotle mayo. They also make a fantastic side to your favorite burgers or salads.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A simple test is to drop a small piece of bread or a bit of batter into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I freeze the onion rings?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked, battered onion rings on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once frozen. Fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy; just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
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The Last Word
These Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or simply as a satisfying snack during your week. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they embody everything you love about classic onion rings while keeping your keto journey on track. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy every crispy bite of these amazing onion rings. You won’t regret it!
Keto Onion Rings - Extra Crispy!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Onions - Start by peeling and slicing your onions into rings, aiming for a thickness of about half an inch for the best crunch.
- Step 2: Make the Batter - In a mixing bowl, combine the whey protein isolate, garlic powder, paprika, flaked salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and sparkling water until well blended.
- Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until you have a smooth batter that is thick enough to coat the onion rings but still pourable.
- Step 4: Heat the Oil - In a frying pan, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat, enough to submerge the onion rings about halfway, which typically requires around 2 cups.
- Step 5: Coat the Onion Rings - Dip each onion ring into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing it in the hot oil.
- Step 6: Fry the Onion Rings - Carefully add the battered onion rings to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and extra crispy.
- Step 7: Drain and Serve - Once cooked, remove the onion rings with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture!
Notes
- Let your coated onion rings rest for about 10 minutes before frying for a crunchier finish.
- For dairy-free, use a plant-based protein powder instead of whey.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
