Amish Onion Fritters are a delicious, crispy snack made with simple ingredients like onions, flour, and spices. Paired with a creamy chive dip, these fritters are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack on their own. The sweetness of the caramelized onions combined with the crispy batter and the tangy dip makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Amish Onion Fritters:
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a little spice)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Chive Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chive Dip
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cover and refrigerate the dip while you prepare the fritters, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Fritter Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and beaten egg together, then gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to create a smooth batter.
- Add the thinly sliced onions to the batter and mix until the onions are well coated.
Step 3: Fry the Onion Fritters
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (around 350°F/175°C), drop spoonfuls of the onion mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the Amish onion fritters warm, garnished with fresh chives if desired.
- Serve alongside the chilled chive dip for dipping.
Cook Notes
- Onion Slicing: Slice the onions thinly so they cook evenly in the fritters. A mandoline can help achieve even slices.
- Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is too cool, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Keep Fritters Warm: If making a large batch, keep the cooked fritters warm by placing them in a low oven (about 200°F) while you finish frying the rest.
Variations
- Cheesy Fritters: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the batter for extra flavor.
- Spicy Onion Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Fritters: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make the fritters gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
These fritters are best served fresh and crispy. However, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters for a healthier version. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the fritters on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use different types of onions?
Yes! You can use yellow, white, or even sweet onions for this recipe. Each type will give a slightly different flavor profile, but all will work beautifully.
How long will the chive dip last?
The chive dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Amish Onion Fritters with Chive Dip is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy fried onions in a light batter and a refreshing chive dip on the side, these fritters make for a delicious appetizer or snack. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a side dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
