Mozzarella-Stuffed Onion Rings with Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
2 large white onions
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
Vegetable oil, for frying
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Onions:
Peel the onions and cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Separate the rings.
For the larger rings, carefully remove the inner layers, leaving about two outer rings intact.
For the smaller rings, you can either use them as they are or combine them to form larger rings.
Stuff with Mozzarella:
Fill the larger onion rings with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Set up Breading Stations:
Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Season the flour and breadcrumb mixture with salt and pepper.
Bread the Onion Rings:
Dip each mozzarella-stuffed onion ring into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
Finally, coat the ring thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
Fry the Onion Rings:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat (around 350°F/175°C).
Carefully place the breaded onion rings into the hot oil, a few at a time.
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the onion rings and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the onion rings are frying, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Serve:
Drizzle the garlic butter over the fried onion rings.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
You can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
To bake the onion rings instead of frying, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake until golden brown.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.