Best French Fried Onions

French Fried Onions are a delightful and crispy addition to so many dishes, from green bean casserole to burgers and salads. Making your own homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. In this recipe, I will guide you through creating the Best French Fried Onions that are sure to elevate your favorite dishes with a delicious crunch.

**Best French Fried Onions**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 large onions
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying

**Instructions:**

1. **Prep the Onions:**
– Peel the onions and slice them thinly into rings. Separate the rings and place them in a shallow dish.

2. **Soak the Onions:**
– Pour the buttermilk over the sliced onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the onions and adds flavor.

3. **Prepare the Coating:**
– In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

4. **Coat the Onions:**
– Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (180°C).
– Remove the onion rings from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
– Dredge the onions in the seasoned flour, making sure they are coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.

5. **Fry the Onions:**
– Carefully drop a few coated onion rings at a time into the hot oil. Be cautious of splattering.
– Fry the onions in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy onions.

6. **Drain and Serve:**
– Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy onions to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps to absorb excess oil.
– Season the fried onions with a sprinkle of salt while they are still hot to enhance the flavors.
– Serve the Best French Fried Onions immediately as a topping for your favorite dishes or as a crunchy snack.

Enjoy the delightful crunch and rich flavor of these homemade French Fried Onions in your dishes. They are perfect for adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals or special occasions. Experiment with different seasonings like cayenne pepper or dried herbs to create your unique flavor profile. Store any leftover fried onions in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Sprinkle them over soups, salads, or sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor and texture. With this simple recipe, you can elevate your cooking and impress your family and friends with delicious homemade French Fried Onions.