Toss Onion Rings In This Flavorful Seasoning For The Ultimate Appetizer

Just like chicken nuggets and anything deep-fried, onion rings, which first came into existence in the 19th century, are often enjoyed with dipping sauces for extra flavor and excitement. But if you are not a big fan of dipping sauces, there's actually a better way to enjoy this battered dish. Try tossing the rings in a barbecue rub while they're still sizzling hot. The seasoning acts as a finishing touch and will add an extra layer of flavor. The residual heat will help the spices cling to the crunchy breading, adding a smoky yet sweet kick to every bite without overpowering the onion inside.

Think of it the same way you season french fries. This method will not only deliver a more intense burst of flavor to the onion rings, but it will also give them a restaurant-style, gourmet finish. Try experimenting with different rubs to see what fits your taste. You can go classic with a brown sugar and paprika-heavy barbecue rub, or switch things up with Cajun seasoning for a spicier profile. Lemon pepper or ranch blends will also work well with the rings. If you're hosting a party, you can also serve the rings with different rubs, letting your guests pick their favorite. 

Many onion ring recipes mix the seasoning directly into the batter. Some fast food onion rings are actually made with this technique. However, this approach may actually dilute the flavor instead of enhancing it. When the spices or seasonings are mixed into wet batter, their flavor can become less potent. Some spices also have a low smoke point, so they can burn during the cooking process, resulting in a bitter taste. If the batter doesn't adhere to the onion slices, you could be left with a flavorless onion ring, or one that tastes disappointingly mild. The flavor will stick better if it's applied after the rings have been fried. 

By applying the barbecue rub after frying the rings, you'll prevent the aromatic spices from losing their signature flavor. You'll be able to taste the flavor before your taste buds get to the onion underneath. Additionally, tossing the rings after cooking preserves the airy and shatter-crisp crunch of the outer shell. If you are tired of having onion rings as an average side dish served with a variety of dipping sauces, try this hack and see how big a difference it makes.