Onion Straws

If you're planning on making an infamous "Green Bean Casserole" sometime this holiday season, please try these little cuties in place of the fried onions in a can.

Onion straws are so easy to prepare, and aren't nearly as salty and over processed as the canned varieties. I also like serving these as toppings on steaks and burgers. They even add a nice crunch to salads. There are so many recipes available, but this one is quick, and you don't need a deep fryer to do it.

Onion Straws

(serves 4-6)

1 large sweet onion

2 and 1/2 cups buttermilk

2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

sea salt and pepper

3 heaping tablespoons of cajun spice (I used "Dinosaur BBQ - Foreplay")

OR you can use chili powder, garlic salt and cayenne pepper to your own tasting

4-6 cups of canola oil

Peel the onion, and slice in half.

Slice the onion into thin slices, almost paper thin.

Place the slices into a deep bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the onions, and let soak for an hour in the fridge. (Don't they look relaxed and happy? Who doesn't love a milk bath?)When onions have marinated in the buttermilk, combine the flour and spices in a plastic bag.Remove the onions from the buttermilk (in batches), and place into the flour mixture. Heat the oil in a small stockpot (pot must be deep to avoid overflowing). Pour in the oil and heat on medium high for 4 minutes. Take a pinch of flour and sprinkle it into the oil. If it bubbles and fizzles, the oil is ready. You want to be sure the oil is nice and hot, but not boiling.

After coating the onions with flour and spices, gently place them into the hot oil. Use tongs to move the slices about and separate. Continue frying until golden brown, then remove and drain on paper towels.This recipe will make a heaping plate of onion straws, ready to enhance your recipes and casseroles.

Warning: Warm, fresh onion straws are highly addictive! Have been known to disappear before using in recipes.... :)