Name: Amish Onion Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487081H50M15S
Total time: PT-487081H50M15S
Cuisine: Amish
Ingredients: 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor); 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adds a hint of sweetness); Vegetable oil, for frying

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Amish Onion Fritters are a crispy, savory treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of onions with a crunchy, golden-brown batter. These fritters are a beloved snack in Amish cuisine, offering a warm, comforting taste with each bite. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re always a hit at gatherings or for a cozy meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Amish Onion Fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a hint of sweetness from the onions. The batter, seasoned to perfection, adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the onions beautifully. These fritters are easy to make and are ideal for those who love deep-fried comfort food. Whether paired with a dipping sauce or eaten as-is, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, they’re perfect for serving with a variety of meals, from grilled meats to fresh salads.

Amish Onion Fritters

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adds a hint of sweetness)
Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

Prepare the onions: Peel and slice the onion into thin rings. For a more uniform texture, you can separate the rings, but if you prefer a chunkier fritter, leave the rings as is.
Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and sugar (if using). Add the milk and egg, and stir until the batter is smooth and thick.
Coat the onions: Add the sliced onions to the batter, making sure they’re well coated. You can use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the onions into the batter, ensuring every slice is covered.
Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach 350°F (175°C) to get the fritters crispy and golden.
Fry the fritters: Once the oil is hot, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter with onions into the oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if necessary. Fry each fritter for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain the fritters: Once the fritters are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve: Serve the fritters hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or ketchup.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 6-8 fritters.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Cheese-stuffed Fritters: Add small pieces of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the batter for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for some heat.
Herb-infused: Add finely chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme to the batter for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these fritters gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they are crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

While these fritters are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before frying.

2. Can I use red onions instead of white onions?

Yes, red onions will work, though they may have a slightly different flavor. They will still be sweet when fried and add a lovely color to the fritters.

3. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

To test the oil, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is hot enough. If the batter sinks or doesn’t bubble, the oil is too cold.

4. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer set to 350°F (175°C) for frying. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for frying and do not overcrowd the fryer.

5. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

Baking these fritters is possible but may not give you the same crispy texture as frying. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. What can I dip these fritters in?

These fritters are delicious with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, ketchup, or even a simple sour cream dip.

7. Can I freeze these fritters?

Yes, you can freeze the fritters. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

8. Can I use frozen onions for this recipe?

While fresh onions are preferred for the best flavor and texture, frozen onions can be used in a pinch. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.

9. How do I make the fritters crispier?

To achieve extra crispy fritters, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. Also, drain the fritters on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

10. How do I prevent the batter from being too runny?

If your batter seems too runny, add a little more flour until it thickens to a pancake batter-like consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the onions but not too thick that it won’t drop easily into the oil.

Conclusion

Amish Onion Fritters are a delightful and crispy snack that perfectly complements any meal or can be enjoyed on their own as a savory treat. With their rich onion flavor, crispy texture, and versatility in dipping sauces, they are a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Easy to make and always a hit, these fritters are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the crispy goodness!