About this recipe

Impossibly thin, shatteringly crispy onion ring chips that have taken social media by storm. Sliced paper-thin and double-dipped in a seasoned buttermilk batter before a quick fry, these golden rings deliver maximum crunch with every bite. Perfect as a snack, side, or party appetizer — they disappear fast!

Instructions

1. 1

   Using a mandoline slicer (or a very sharp knife), slice the yellow onion into paper-thin rings, about 1/8-inch thick. Separate the rings and place them in a mixing bowl of cold water for 10 minutes — this removes excess sharpness and helps them crisp up when fried. Drain well and pat completely dry with kitchen towel. Moisture is the enemy of crunch!

2. 2

   In a shallow mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, the cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, buttermilk, and beaten egg until a smooth, thin batter forms. The batter should coat a spoon lightly — add a splash more buttermilk if it's too thick.

3. 3

   Pour the vegetable oil into a deep, heavy pot and heat over ^[medium-high heat] to ![375°F]. Working in small batches, dredge the dry yellow onion rings first in the seasoned all-purpose flour-cornstarch mixture, then dip into the buttermilk batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully lower into the hot oil and fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden and ultra-crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot — this drops the oil temperature and makes soggy chips.

4. 4

   Use tongs to transfer the fried yellow onion ring chips to a wire rack set over a baking sheet (not kitchen towel — the rack keeps air circulating so they stay crispy). Immediately season with a pinch of kosher salt while hot. Repeat with remaining rings, returning the oil to ![375°F] between batches.

5. 5

   Serve immediately for maximum crunch. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce — ranch, spicy mayo, or a tangy ketchup-sriracha blend all work beautifully.