Go Back
+ servings
Crispy onion strings straws recipe close up with dip feature image

Crispy Onion Strings (Straws) Recipe

Jami Powell
Are you a fan of crispy and crunchy snacks? Then let me show you how to make these Crispy Onion Strings (also known as Onion Straws)! These crunchy bites of goodness are amazing by themselves, or on top of burgers, steaks, salads... etc. They take just a few minutes to fry up and they are great as a stand-alone snack, or they can be used to add delicious flavor and texture to any meal.
Save Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Mandolin (or Knife)
  • Deep fryer (or deep skillet)
  • Wire rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large Vidalia onion thinly sliced into rings
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Peanut oil for frying

Instructions
 

Deep Fryer Method

  • Peel the onion and use a mandolin slicer to slice it paper thin (about ⅛ inch thick). Separate the onion rings and place them in a bowl. Pour buttermilk over the onion rings, ensuring they are fully soaked. Let them rest for 30 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned flour mixture.
  • Remove the onion rings from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Toss the onion rings in the seasoned flour mixture until evenly coated.
  • Heat peanut oil in a deep skillet or pot to 360°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated onion strings in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried onion strings and drain on a wire rack or use paper towels.

Air Fryer Method

  • Prepare the thinly sliced Vidalia onion rings and soak them in buttermilk for flavor and tenderness.
  • Create the seasoned flour mixture and coat the onion rings thoroughly.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.
  • Once they turn golden brown and crispy, remove the onion strings from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze This dish is not freezer friendly.
Reheat Use the air fryer to restore crispiness or reheat in the oven.
Substitutions
  • Oil - Canola oil or vegetable oil can be used as a replacement for frying.
  • Egg - If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, you can use beaten egg as a replacement for buttermilk to provide a similar binding effect.
Nutrition The provided nutrition information is only an estimate.
Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 3gFat: 9g
Did you make this recipe?Tag @powell.family.cooking on Instagram