Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings Recipe

This Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings Recipe is crispy and golden, which includes sweet Vidalia onions and a light buttermilk batter. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 30 minutes.

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Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup sparkling water (cold)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings

1. Prepare the onions: Slice onions into 1/2-inch rings, separate, and pat dry.
2. Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and sparkling water. Combine wet and dry until smooth.
3. Heat the oil: In a deep pot, heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dip and fry: Dip onion rings in batter, letting excess drip. Fry in batches 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Drain and season: Remove onion rings to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt while hot.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately with ketchup, ranch, or aioli.

Recipe Tips

• What onions are best for onion rings? Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla give the best flavor.
• How do I keep the batter crispy? Use cold sparkling water and fry in small batches.
• Can I make them ahead of time? Onion rings are best served fresh, but you can re-crisp them in the oven at 400°F for 5–7 minutes.
• What oil is best for frying? Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil all work well for high-heat frying.
• How do I stop soggy onion rings? Make sure the oil stays at 350°F and don’t overcrowd the pot.

What To Serve With Onion Rings

These crispy onion rings are perfect as a side or appetizer. Pair them with:

• Grilled burgers or steak sandwiches
• Fried chicken or fish
• A fresh summer salad
• Garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo
• Classic ketchup or ranch dressing

How To Store Onion Rings

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F until crispy.

Freeze: Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.

Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 480 mg

Nutrition values are estimated and may vary by ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make onion rings in the air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly with oil for crispiness.

Why does my batter fall off the onion rings?
Make sure the onions are patted dry before dipping in the batter.

Can I make onion rings without buttermilk?
Yes, substitute with milk plus 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Do I need cornstarch?
Yes, it helps create a light, crunchy coating, but you can use rice flour as a substitute.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Cheese Ball Recipe
• Ina Garten Rangoon Dip Recipe
• Ina Garten Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe