Name: Amish Onion Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; Vegetable oil, for frying; Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Amish Onion Fritters are the perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender, savory interior. The onions are tenderized and draw out moisture before being coated in a flavorful batter made with a mix of basic pantry ingredients. The addition of buttermilk gives these fritters a slight tang, while the paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Fried until golden brown, these fritters are a deliciously crunchy bite you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Ingredients

2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Onions:
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Drain any excess liquid from the onions.
Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

In a separate small bowl, mix the buttermilk and egg.

Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the fritters light and airy.
Combine Onions and Batter:
Fold the drained onions into the batter, ensuring the onions are well-coated.
Fry the Fritters:
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

Drop spoonfuls of the onion batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
Serve:
Serve the fritters hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or a tangy BBQ sauce.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 fritters

Variations

Spicy Onion Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter to give these fritters a spicy kick.
Cheesy Fritters: Mix in a small amount of grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or a mix) into the batter for a cheesy twist.
Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these fritters.
Herb-Infused Fritters: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the batter for an herby flavor boost.
Sweet Onion Fritters: Use sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder, sweeter taste in your fritters.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

1. Can I make these fritters in advance?

While onion fritters are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. It’s best to fry them right before serving to maintain their crispiness.

2. Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes! You can use yellow onions, red onions, or sweet onions like Vidalia. The type of onion will change the flavor, but each will work well in this recipe.

3. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

While frying gives these fritters their signature crispy texture, you can try baking them on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy but will still be delicious.

4. How do I know when the fritters are done frying?

The fritters are done when they are golden brown on both sides. You can also check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

5. Can I use almond milk instead of buttermilk?

You can use almond milk or another dairy-free milk, but the tangy flavor of buttermilk adds a nice balance to the fritters. If you’re using almond milk, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tang of buttermilk.

6. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer to make these fritters. Just make sure the oil is heated to around 350°F for optimal frying.

7. Can I freeze these fritters?

Yes, you can freeze the fritters. Allow them to cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

8. How can I make the fritters crispier?

To make the fritters crispier, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F). Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fritters.

9. Can I make these fritters without eggs?

Yes, you can make these fritters without eggs by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or a store-bought egg replacement.

10. What dipping sauces go best with onion fritters?

These fritters pair well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or a tangy BBQ sauce. You can even try a creamy garlic dip for a flavorful complement.

Conclusion

Amish Onion Fritters are a crispy, savory treat that’s sure to delight anyone who loves onion rings or crispy fried foods. The perfect combination of sweet onions and a simple batter results in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these fritters are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for a deliciously indulgent experience!