Amish Onion Fritters are a simple yet delicious recipe made with sweet onions, a savory batter, and fried to crispy perfection. Paired with a creamy chive dip, these fritters are the perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer. The combination of crispy edges and tender onions will make them a hit at any meal.
Ingredients
For the Onion Fritters:
- 2 large sweet onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Chive Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chive Dip
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped chives, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
- Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate while you make the onion fritters to let the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Make the Onion Fritters
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Add the sliced onions to the batter and toss until all the onions are well-coated.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
- Working in batches, carefully drop spoonfuls of the onion batter into the hot oil, pressing them down slightly to form small patties.
- Fry each fritter for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the warm onion fritters with the chilled chive dip on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with extra chopped chives if desired.
Cook Notes
- Onion Type: Sweet onions like Vidalia onions work best, but yellow onions can also be used for a slightly stronger flavor.
- Thickness: For crispier fritters, slice the onions thinly and ensure the batter is not too thick.
- Heat Control: Adjust the heat as needed while frying to maintain an even temperature and prevent the fritters from burning.
Variations
- Cheesy Onion Fritters: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Onion Fritters: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the batter for a little heat.
- Herb-Infused Fritters: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill into the batter for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Fritters are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but you can keep them warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven for up to 30 minutes if needed. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the best texture, you can bake the fritters. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place spoonfuls of batter on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes! Freeze the cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy.
Amish Onion Fritters with Chive Dip are a delightful and savory treat that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor. The crispy onion fritters paired with the tangy, creamy chive dip make for a perfect combination that’s sure to please at any meal or gathering. Serve these as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and enjoy the comforting, crispy goodness!
