Buttermilk Onion Rings (Bobby Flay)

By Neenee

Ingredients

• 2 large Vidalia or other sweet onions
• 1 quart peanut oil
• 2 cups buttermilk
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Peel the onions and slice them crosswise into 1 inch thick slices. Separate each slice into individual rings and then remmove the papery thin membrane covering the inside of each ring.

Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed medium stockpot over medium heat, or in a tabletop deep fryer, to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and set aside.

While the oil is heating, put the buttermilk in a large baking dish and season liberally with salt and black pepper. Divide the flour between 2 large baking dishes and season each dish liberally with salt and pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of the cayenne.

Working in batches, dredge some of the onion rings in one of the dishes of flour and tap off the excess. dip the rings in the buttermilk, allow the excess to drain off, and then dredge the rings in the second dish of flour, making sure to coat the rings evenly. Tap off the excess and transfer the batch of coated rings to the hot oil. Fry the rings, turning once or twice, until golden brown and tender, about 4 minutes. Remove with a mesh skimmer and drain on the baking sheet lined with paper towels. Season immediately with salt. Repeat until all of the onion rings have been cooked. Serve hot.