Fried Onions are a delightful, crispy, and flavorful accompaniment, crafted from basic elements like onions, basic seasonings, oil, and, in the French rendition, buttermilk, and flour. They stand as versatile toppings, enhancing the appeal of burgers, sandwiches, biryani feasts, soups, and fried rice dishes, and even serve as a satisfying snack.
The recipe I've shared here provides instructions for preparing both Classic and French versions of Fried Onions. Additionally, I've included a detailed video of this recipe below to make the cooking process even more straightforward.
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What are Fried Onions?
Fried Onions are a crispy, crunchy, and flavorful condiment, made with basic ingredients such as onions, and simple seasonings, and the French version adds buttermilk and flour. They serve as a versatile topping for burgers, sandwiches, biryani dishes, fried rice dishes, and even as a satisfying snack.
When it comes to Fried Onions, there are two distinct types: the classic and the French. In the classic version, onions are thinly sliced and crisped up in oil, while some opt for a cornstarch coating before frying. In the French rendition, the onions take a bath in buttermilk, get dusted in seasoned flour, and are then fried to crispy perfection.
Each version boasts its unique flavor, taste, and texture, and having a batch ready at home can truly elevate your dinner or lunch meals. Now, why not give it a try? Experiment with both classic and French Fried Onions to discover the one that perfectly complements your favorite dishes.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients you will need for making Fried Onions consist of simple elements, including basic seasonings and oil. Let's take a closer look at what they are below.
- Onions: You can choose any type of onions, whether white, yellow, purple, or even shallots. They work perfectly for making Fried Onions
- All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is used for coating the onions, delivering a crispy exterior, especially for creating the French version. It adds a delightful crunch to the dish. You can also use cornstarch if that's handy for you
- Buttermilk: Enhances their flavor, imparts a unique tangy quality, and creates a buttermilk-soaked base for the seasoned flour coating. This process adds depth and complexity to the French version of Fried Onions
- Seasoning: The seasoning typically includes salt and black pepper. These seasonings enhance the taste. Also, it provides a balanced flavor profile to your crispy onions
- Oil: For deep-frying the onions. It's an essential component in the frying process, ensuring the onions become crispy and golden. I have used canola oil, but feel free to use the cooking oil of your choice
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Fried Onions at Home?
The recipe I've shared here is for Fried Onions, a crispy, crunchy, and flavorful condiment that's perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes. In this guide, I've provided both the classic and French methods to make them, making the frying process a breeze. So, by following these steps, you can learn how to create crispy onions that suit your personal preference.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
Prep Onions
- Peel and slice: To start, trim the top and root ends of the onions and remove the outer papery layer. Following this, halve the onions and proceed to cut these halves into medium-sized slices
- Separate the layers: After the onions have been sliced, take care to gently separate the layers and transfer them into a bowl. However, the choice of which version to prepare depends on your convenience and personal preference. You can tailor your approach accordingly, selecting the style that best suits your needs and taste
Make Classic Fried Onions
- Add the onions in batches: In a pan placed over medium heat, pour an adequate amount of oil suitable for deep-frying the onions. Wait for the oil to heat up, and to confirm its readiness, use the wooden spoon test: when the oil bubbles, it's primed for frying. Now, introduce the sliced onions in batches
- Fry until golden: Fry the onions until they attain a golden brown hue, stirring periodically to ensure uniform cooking. Typically, it takes approximately 10-15 minutes to achieve the desired level of crispiness, though this duration may differ when dealing with smaller quantities
- Remove: Once the onions display that inviting golden brown appearance, employ a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Allow any excess oil to drain away by placing them on a paper towel. Now the classic version is ready
Make French-Fried Onions
- Soak the onions: To prepare French Fried onions, take the sliced onions and place them into a bowl. Subsequently, add a cup of buttermilk and allow the onions to soak in it for a minimum of 30 minutes. After the soaking period, drain the buttermilk and reserve the soaked onions
- Prep Flour Mix: On a tray, combine all-purpose flour, black pepper, and salt, ensuring a thorough mixture
- Dredge the onions: Coat the buttermilk-soaked onions in the flour mixture, covering them completely. This step readies the flour-coated onions for the frying process
- Fry them in batches: In a pan with oil over medium heat, add the flour-coated onions in batches. Fry them until they become crispy and attain a delightful golden hue. The typical frying duration is approximately 7-10 minutes to achieve the desired texture, although it may vary when frying smaller quantities
- Remove: Once the French-fried onions are crispy and golden, carefully remove them from the oil. Now your crispy and crunchy onions are now ready to use in a variety of recipes
Tips
- Choose the Right Onions: Select fresh, good-quality onions. While various types can be used, such as white, yellow, purple, or shallots, consider your flavor preference
- Slice Uniformly: Aim for consistent slicing to ensure even cooking. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for best results
- Separating Onion Layers: After slicing, gently separate the onion layers to create individual, thin pieces. This allows for even frying and better texture
- Temperature Control: Maintain the right oil temperature. For classic fried onions, medium heat works well. Use a wooden spoon or thermometer to check the oil's readiness. If you find that the onions are browning too quickly, don't hesitate to adjust the temperature accordingly. This flexibility ensures you achieve the desired level of crispiness without overcooking
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Frying in smaller batches ensures that the onions cook evenly and turn golden brown
- Drain Excess Oil: After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the onions from the oil. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, which keeps them crispy
- Seasoning: Season the fried onions with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor
Storage Suggestions
These crispy Fried Onions, whether you choose the classic or French version, can stay fresh for up to a week when stored in a sealed jar or container at room temperature. If you're preparing them in larger quantities, you can opt for freezer-friendly ziplock bags, allowing you to keep them for up to 3 months in the freezer.
It's crucial to ensure that you cool the Fried Onions to room temperature and remove any excess oil using a paper towel before storing for the best results. This simple practice will help maintain their quality and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Whether classic or French, Fried Onions are versatile toppings that can add flavor, texture, and a delightful crunch to various dishes. Here are some common serving ideas:
- Casseroles: Enhance the appeal of various casseroles, from green bean casseroles to chicken and rice dishes, by using crispy French Onions as a topping
- Burgers and Sandwiches: Elevate the taste and texture of your burgers and sandwiches by adding crispy onions as a tasty topping
- Salads: Sprinkle them on salads to provide an extra layer of crunch and flavor
- Biryani Dishes: For a unique twist, incorporate fried onions into biryani dishes like Mughlai chicken biryani, Fish Biryani or mushroom biryani
- Soups: Garnish soups such as French onion soup or creamy tomato soup with these crispy onions for a delightful finish
- Nasi Goreng: An Indonesian fried rice dish, often includes fried onions as a garnish or topping. It can add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the dish, making it even more delicious
- Hot Dogs: Give your hot dogs a flavor boost by including fried onions and your preferred condiments
- Snacking: You can also enjoy them as a standalone snack due to their crunchy and delicious nature
Related Recipes
You can also find similar recipes below and more at fried food recipes.
- Caramelized Onion
- French Fries
- Fried Chicken
- Fried Chicken Tenders
- Fried Chicken Wings
- Fried Shrimp
- Fried Fish
- Fried Rice
Fried Onions Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Fried Onions recipe below that I hope will help you make the classic and French versions easily at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
Fried Onions (Classic and French Fried)
Ingredients
For Classic Fried Onion
- 6 Onions, large (I have used 3 for classic and 3 for French)
- Oil, for deep frying
For French Fried Onion
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 1 cup All Purpose Flour
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Prep Onions
- Start by trimming the top and root ends of the onions and remove the outer papery layer. Then, halve the onions and cut the halves into medium-sized slices, as shown in the picture
- After slicing the onion, be sure to separate the layers and transfer them into a bowl. I have set aside a portion for making classic fried onions and another portion for French fried onions
For Classic Fried Onion
- In a pan set over medium heat, pour enough oil for deep-frying the onions. Heat the oil, and to check if it's ready, insert a wooden spoon - if the oil bubbles, it's hot and ready. Now, add the sliced onions in batches
- Fry the onions until they turn a golden brown color, stirring occasionally for even cooking. It took about 10-15 minutes to reach the desired consistency, but the time may vary for smaller quantities
- Once they are golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain the excess oil on a paper towel
For French Fried Onions
- For making French fried onions, place the sliced onions in a bowl and add a cup of buttermilk. Allow them to soak in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, drain the buttermilk and set aside the sliced onions
- In a tray, combine all-purpose flour, black pepper, and salt. Mix them thoroughly
- Dredge the buttermilk-soaked onions in the flour mixture to coat them. The flour-coated onions are now ready to be fried
- In a pan with oil over medium heat, add the flour-coated onions in batches
- Fry them until they become crispy and golden. It typically takes about 7-10 minutes to achieve the desired texture, although the time may vary when frying smaller quantities
- Once they are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil. Now the crispy and crunchy Fried Onions are ready to be used in different recipes
To Use
- These Fried Onions can be used as a topping for various dishes such as biryanis (e.g., chicken biryani, Mughlai chicken biryani, and mushroom biryani), burgers, green beans casserole, or as a delightful snack
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Choose the Right Onions: Select fresh, good-quality onions. While various types can be used, such as white, yellow, purple, or shallots, consider your flavor preference
- Slice Uniformly: Aim for consistent slicing to ensure even cooking. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for best results
- Separating Onion Layers: After slicing, gently separate the onion layers to create individual, thin pieces. This allows for even frying and better texture
- Temperature Control: Maintain the right oil temperature. For classic fried onions, medium heat works well. Use a wooden spoon or thermometer to check the oil's readiness. If you find that the onions are browning too quickly, don't hesitate to adjust the temperature accordingly. This flexibility ensures you achieve the desired level of crispiness without overcooking
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Frying in smaller batches ensures that the onions cook evenly and turn golden brown
- Drain Excess Oil: After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the onions from the oil. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, which keeps them crispy
- Seasoning: Season the fried onions with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer: We’re not nutrition experts. Nutritional info is estimated and should be used as a guide. For precise details, consult a professional.
FAQ
The time needed to fry onions and create fried onions can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the onions, the type of onions used, and the heat of the oil. Typically, it takes about 10-15 minutes to achieve the desired golden brown and crispy texture when frying thinly sliced onions. However, this time may vary if you are frying a different quantity or thickness of onions, so it's important to monitor the onions while frying to ensure they reach the desired level of crispiness.
Yes, you can use milk as a substitute for buttermilk when soaking the onions. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can create a buttermilk alternative by adding a small amount of vinegar to regular milk. Simply add about 1 tablespoon of vinegar to 1 cup of milk, let it sit for a few minutes to curdle, and then use it as a substitute for buttermilk in the recipe.
Yes, you can use cornstarch as a substitute for all-purpose flour to coat the onions. Cornstarch can provide a similar crispy texture while also accommodating dietary preferences or restrictions, such as those requiring a gluten-free alternative.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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