1. Prep the Onions
Thinly slice onions and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for 5 minutes—this draws out excess moisture and softens their bite. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Make the Batter
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
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In a separate bowl, beat together the egg and milk.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined—it should be thick but pourable, like pancake batter.
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Fold in the onions.
💡 Tip: Don’t overmix—the occasional lump is perfectly fine!
3. Fry Until Golden
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Heat ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
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Drop ¼-cup mounds of batter into the oil, flatten slightly with a spoon.
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Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and cooked through.
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Drain on a wire rack (not paper towels, to maintain crispness).
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Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while hot.
Tips for Perfect Fritters
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Dry onions = crispy fritters; wet onions = soggy batter.
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Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Keep oil at medium heat—too hot burns the outside before the inside cooks.
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Make ahead: batter keeps in the fridge for up to 1 hour; drain onions before using if they release water.
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Serve immediately—they’re best hot and crisp!
Serving Suggestions
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Classic Amish: With a dollop of apple butter or jam
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Savory pairing: Alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or ham steak
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Brunch favorite: Top with a fried egg and chives
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Appetizer twist: Serve with garlic aioli or spicy maple dip
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Vegetarian meal: With a simple green salad and crusty bread
Delicious Variations
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 GF flour blend + ½ tsp xanthan gum
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Dairy-Free: Swap milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk
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Herb-Infused: Add 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley to the batter
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Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ tsp cayenne or diced jalapeño
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Sweet Onion: Use Vidalia or Walla Walla onions—skip added sugar
FAQs
Q: Can I bake or air fry these?
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Air fryer: Spray fritters with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
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Oven: Bake at 425°F on a greased sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping once.
Q: Why are my fritters greasy?
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Oil was too cool. Keep it at medium heat so the batter sizzles gently.
Q: Can I use frozen onions?
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No—frozen onions release too much water. Fresh is key.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
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Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving—it makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts: Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Amish Onion Fritters are more than a side—they’re a celebration of comfort, simplicity, and flavor. Crispy edges, tender onions, and a subtle hint of sweetness make them a dish worth savoring.
Slice those onions, heat the oil, and fry up a batch that will disappear faster than you can say “just one more.”
Made these and loved them? Share your favorite way to serve them—apple butter, fried egg, or straight from the skillet—and tag me on social! One crispy bite is all it takes to turn onion skeptics into believers. 🧅✨💛