Crispy Golden Beer Battered Onion Rings

1. Heat vegetable oil to 375 degrees F in a large Dutch oven or deep cast iron pot. Make sure oil is at least 2 inches high in the pot

2. Cut off ends of onions and remove skin. Cut onion into 1/2 inch thick slices and carefully turn into rings

3. Dust onions in a 1/2 cup of flour and shake off excess

4. Mix 2 cups of flour with the salt, cayenne, and beer. Whisk gently to just incorporate the ingredients and avoid overmixing

5. Working in batches dip the onions into the batter and coat well. Shake off excess and gently place in hot oil. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes total, turning halfway during the frying process. Place cooked onion rings on a wire rack to drain excess oil

6. Place cooked onion rings in a low temp oven (170F) to keep warm while frying all the batches. Enjoy!

Notes

1. Oil should be at least 2 inches high in Dutch oven or pot

2. Cayenne pepper is optional. If omitting, add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper instead

3. Most large onions like Vidalia, white, or yellow onions can be used

4. Avoid over-mixing the batter to prevent excess gluten formation

5. Plain seltzer can be substituted for the beer

6. To keep the onion rings crisp and warm while frying all the batches, place cooked rings in a low temp oven (170F) on an extra wire rack or baking tray