Description
Mozzarella Onion Rings
Ingredients:
2 large onions
8 slices of mozzarella cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
Oil for frying
Preparation:
Cut onions into rings and fill with mozzarella.
Dip in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
Heat oil and fry until golden brown.
Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.
Description:
Golden, crunchy, and oozing with mozzarella, these onion rings are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
#SnackAttack
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings, choosing the largest, most intact ones for filling.
2. Fill with Cheese: Place a mozzarella slice inside each large onion ring, folding or trimming the cheese to fit snugly within the ring’s circumference. You can use two smaller rings to sandwich the cheese if needed.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls. Place the all-purpose flour in the first, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
4. Bread the Rings: Working one at a time, coat each filled ring thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring a complete, even coating. Place on a plate.
5. Fry to Perfection: In a deep pot or skillet, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few rings, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried rings to a plate lined with paper towels. Let them drain for a minute, then serve immediately while the cheese is molten.
Serving Suggestions
These mozzarella onion rings are a star appetizer. Serve them with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping, a creamy ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They pair perfectly with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness or alongside a juicy burger for the ultimate indulgent meal.
How-to Summary
Create delicious mozzarella-stuffed onion rings by slicing onions, filling the rings with cheese, and coating them in a standard flour, egg, and breadcrumb breading. Deep fry in hot oil until golden and crispy for a gooey, satisfying snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, for a lighter version. Place breaded rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. The cheese may not melt as dramatically.
What type of oil is best for frying? Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. This ensures a crisp result without a burnt flavor.
Can I prepare them ahead of time? You can bread the rings and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying. Do not freeze or prepare too far in advance, as the onions will release moisture and make the coating soggy.
My cheese is leaking out during frying. How do I prevent this? Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed by the onion ring and that your breadcrumb coating is even and sealed well. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the rings; this seals the exterior quickly.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. While mozzarella is ideal for its melt and stretch, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a cheddar-jack blend.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Oil Temperature: Frying in oil that is not hot enough leads to greasy, soggy rings and cheese leakage. Always use a thermometer.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many rings at once drastically lowers the oil temperature. Fry in small batches.
- Incomplete Coating: Gaps in the breadcrumb layer will cause the cheese to burst out. Press firmly to adhere crumbs.
- Using Wet Onions: Pat onion rings dry with a paper towel before filling to help the flour coating stick better.
Conclusion
These Mozzarella Onion Rings transform a classic snack into a decadent, shareable treat. The combination of sweet onion, crispy coating, and molten cheese is irresistible. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can reliably create this crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering or a special #SnackAttack at home.
