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Amazing Tennessee Onions

These delightful Tennessee Onions are a sweet and smoky twist on traditional onion rings, perfect as a snack or side dish for any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Onion Preparation
  • 2 large sweet onions Use fresh sweet onions for the best flavor.
Tennessee Marinade
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce Optional, adjust to spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup water
Southern Cornmeal Dredge
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup fine cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional, adjust to spice preference.
Frying
  • 4 cups frying oil Heat oil to about 350°F (175°C).

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Peel the sweet onions and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds, keeping the rings intact.
  2. In a shallow dish or resealable bag, mix together the Tennessee Marinade ingredients.
  3. Add the onion rings to the marinade, ensuring they are all coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or an hour in the refrigerator.
Dredging
  1. Combine the Southern Cornmeal Dredge ingredients in a shallow dish.
  2. Remove an onion ring from the marinade, allow excess liquid to drip off, then coat it in the cornmeal mixture. Place the coated rings on a wire rack.
Frying
  1. Carefully add onion rings to the hot oil and fry for 2-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  2. Drain on a wire rack and sprinkle with salt.
Baking Alternative
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated rings on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving
  1. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Leftover Tennessee Onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy.