Crispy Onion Rings with Beer Batter

Indulge in the delightful crunch of crispy onion rings coated in a flavorful beer batter. This delicious recipe marries the sweetness of onions with the rich, malty taste of "Lielvārdes" Classic Light Ale, creating an appetizer that is both satisfying and impressive. The light beer not only adds flavor but also makes the batter airy and crisp. Perfect as a snack with friends or as a side for your favorite burger, these onion rings are a crowd-pleaser. The kick of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the mix, complemented perfectly by a tangy sour cream and garlic dip. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe takes just about twenty-five minutes from start to finish. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these rings are sure to add a touch of gourmet flair to your dining experience. Fry them to golden perfection and relish the blend of textures and flavors in each bite. For an extra touch, serve them with a light beer as a refreshing pairing. Now, let's dive into making these irresistible crispy onion rings with beer batter.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 large onions
180 ml "Lielvārdes" Classic Light Ale
60 g wheat flour
1 egg
Bread crumbs for coating
Oil for frying

Spices

1 tsp smoked paprika powder
1/2 tsp salt

Preparation Time

Total: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

**Peel the onions** and slice them into rings approximately 5 mm thick. Separate each ring and choose the largest for frying. Save the smaller rings for another use.
In a bowl, **combine wheat flour, salt, and smoked paprika powder**. Use this mixture to coat all the onion rings evenly.
Remove the coated rings and set them aside.
Add "Lielvārdes" Classic Light Ale and **beat in the egg** to the remaining flour mix, stirring to form a smooth batter.
Dip each onion ring into the beer batter. Use a fork to gently lift them, letting any excess batter drip back into the bowl.
Proceed to **coat each battered ring in bread crumbs**, ensuring a thorough, even coverage.
Heat oil in a deep saucepan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle a pinch of flour on contact.
Carefully **place onion rings into the hot oil** using a slotted spoon or tongs.
Fry the rings until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Ensure not to overcrowd the pot, frying them in batches if necessary.
Once cooked to perfection, remove the onion rings and drain excess oil by placing them on paper towels.
Layer cooked rings in a bowl for serving, or keep warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Optionally, prepare a simple dip by mixing sour cream with minced garlic for extra flavor.
Garnish lightly with a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.
Serve immediately with a chilled glass of "Lielvārdes" Classic Light Ale for the best experience.
These onion rings pair nicely with burgers, salads, or alongside grilled meats.
If making for a party, prep the batter and onions ahead, frying just before guests arrive.
For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a tablespoon of soy milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar.
The beer used can be exchanged for a lager or any other light ale available.
Store leftover rings in an airtight container, reheating in a preheated oven to recapture their crispiness.

Tips

**Choose sweet onions** such as Vidalia for a milder flavor.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before starting to fry. A thermometer should read approximately 180°C (355°F).
Bake in an oven for a healthier alternative to frying.
Substitute regular beer with non-alcoholic beer if needed.

Nutritions

Approximate per serving (5 rings):

Calories: 250
Protein: 5g
Fats: 12g
Carbs: 30g

Variations

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Sprinkle with cheese or herbs after frying for added flavor.
Replace smoked paprika with chili powder for a spicier kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a creamy garlic dip or spicy tomato salsa.
Serve alongside barbecue dishes or grilled specialties.
Enjoy as part of a casual snack platter with assorted dips.

Best Places

The Craft Beer Co. - Known for its vast craft beer selection and hearty pub food. Location: 168 High Holborn, London, United Kingdom.
The Well - Offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying classic snacks like onion rings. Location: 55 Crosby Street, New York City, USA.
Cape to Cuba - A vibrant place to enjoy crispy rings with a view of the Cape. Location: 165 Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, South Africa.
Biergarten - Combines beer culture with delicious bites in a lively setting. Location: 235 Cloudview Road, Brisbane, Australia.
Le Delirium Café - Great for Belgian beers and their crispy sides. Location: Impasse de la Fidélité 4, Brussels, Belgium.
Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen - Known for signature dishes and stellar sides. Location: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
Bierhaus - Offers a delightful spread of beverages and tasty snacks. Location: 10 Place du Marché Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
Prohibition Taproom - Serves up American classics with specialty brews. Location: 501 N 13th St, Philadelphia, USA.
Hopper’s - Famous for its traditional and unique beer pairings. Location: 51 Frith Street, Soho, London, UK.
Beerok - Offers an extensive beer list and crispy nibbles. Location: Ben Yehuda Street 112, Tel Aviv, Israel.