Crispy Onion Rings

Onion Rings is an awesum recipe if you use Japanese breadcrumbs, called Panko,  available in most large supermarkets, and when combined with this simple batter, produces ultra crispy onion rings. These onion rings start crispy and stay crispy. 

Serves 8-10

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredient

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornstarch

2 tablespoons instant mashed potatoes

big pinch of cayenne

1 cup cold club soda

2-3 cups panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs), or as needed

fine salt to taste

vegetable oil for frying

2-3 yellow onions, cut into 1/4-inch rings

Preparation:

Sift together the flour and cornstarch.

 Add the instant mashed potatoes, cayenne and club soda. Whisk to combine.

 Let sit in the fridge for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil to 350 degrees F. Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. 
 Remove batter from the fridge and check for consistency. 

The mixture should resemble a slightly thick pancake batter. 

More club soda can be added to adjust. Working in batches, use a fork to coat the onion rings in the batter, let the excess drip off, and then toss in the panko to coat on both sides.  
 Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning over in the oil halfway through, until crispy and golden brown. Drain on a rack, and serve warm, sprinkled with salt.  
Note: Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the panko makes for a much crispier onion ring.