Black and Tan Onion Rings

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet onions (i.e. Vidalia, Mayan, etc.)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock (maybe more, see note below)
• 1 tablespoon salt (optional)
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 dried ancho peppers, flaked (or use your favorite chili pepper)
• vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. 1

   Cut onions into 1/4-inch slices and separate concentric rings. Set aside.

2. 2

   Mix flour, salt (optionally), paprika, cayenne pepper, and the pepper flakes.

3. 3

   Add stock until mixture takes on a batter consistency -- see note below.

4. 4

   Pour oil into heavy saucepan, wok, or deep fryer to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Heat to 350F.

5. 5

   Preferably with tongs, coat each ring individually until completely covered with batter.

6. 6

   In batches, place rings into the oil until batter takes on various shades of medium and dark brown.

7. 7

   Remove rings from oil and place on dioxin-free paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

8. 8

   * I'm not sure exactly how much stock to use here but start with the recommended 1 1/2 cups and add flour and stock intermittently until a batter texture is achieved.