Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy!
Who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried onion ring? If you’re following a keto diet, you might have thought that this beloved snack was off-limits. But fear not! This recipe for Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! is here to save the day. With a few clever ingredient swaps, you can enjoy these crispy delights without any guilt. Imagine biting into a golden, crunchy onion ring that’s low in carbs but high in flavor. You’ll be amazed at how easy they are to make and how delicious they taste!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe for Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! stands out because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that still deliver that classic crunch you crave. Instead of using traditional breadcrumbs, we’re opting for whey protein isolate which not only keeps the carb count low but also adds a great texture to the batter. The addition of spices like garlic powder and paprika elevates the flavor profile, making these onion rings irresistible. They’re perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even as a crispy topping for your favorite burger.
Shopping List
- 3 medium onions (about 170g after trimming)
- 50g whey protein isolate
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon flaked salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sparkling water
- 2 cups oil for frying (avocado or coconut oil recommended)
Cook’s Kit
- Cutting board and knife – for slicing onions.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the batter.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – for frying the onion rings.
- Slotted spoon – for removing the onion rings from oil.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil.
Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by peeling your onions and cutting them into thick rings. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness to ensure they fry evenly. Discard the ends and any tiny bits in the middle that won’t hold together.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the whey protein isolate, garlic powder, paprika, flaked salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and sparkling water until well blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the onion rings, so aim for about 2 cups. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
Step 4: Dip and Fry
Working in batches, dip each onion ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered onion rings into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and extra crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them plain!
Dietary Customizations
- For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the whey protein isolate with plant-based protein powder.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter.
- For low-sodium options, reduce or omit the flaked salt.
- Swap Dijon mustard with your favorite mustard variety for a different flavor twist.
What Not to Do
- Don’t skip the sparkling water! It helps create a light, airy batter.
- Avoid overcrowding the frying pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t use low-quality oils; they can affect the flavor and texture of the onion rings.
- Be careful with the frying temperature; too hot can burn the rings, while too low can make them soggy.
Save It for Later
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. However, fresh is always best, so try to enjoy them right after frying!
Your Top Questions
Can I make these onion rings in an air fryer?
Yes! To make Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Dip the onion rings in the batter and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What can I serve with these onion rings?
These onion rings pair wonderfully with keto-friendly dipping sauces like ranch, guacamole, or a zesty avocado aioli. You can also enjoy them as a side to a juicy burger or alongside grilled meats.
Can I freeze the onion rings before frying?
Absolutely! You can prepare the onion rings, batter them, and then freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw—just fry them straight from the freezer!
Are these onion rings suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy! can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. They are great for meal prep as a crunchy side dish and can easily be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Next Steps
Now that you know how to make these delicious Keto Onion Rings – Extra Crispy!, it’s time to hit the kitchen! Gather your ingredients and cooking kit, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful snack. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag your favorite food bloggers to spread the love for keto-friendly cooking. Enjoy your crispy, crunchy onion rings that are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals!
Keto Onion Rings - Extra Crispy!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling your onions and cutting them into thick rings. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness to ensure they fry evenly. Discard the ends and any tiny bits in the middle that won’t hold together.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whey protein isolate, garlic powder, paprika, flaked salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and sparkling water until well blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- In a deep frying pan, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the onion rings, so aim for about 2 cups. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
- Working in batches, dip each onion ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered onion rings into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and extra crispy.
- Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them plain!
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whey protein isolate with plant-based protein powder.
- Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
