Cheesy Onion Rings (Printable Version)

Crispy, golden onion rings filled with gooey mozzarella and coated in crunchy Panko.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 1 large onion, sliced into thick rings
02 - 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 1 large egg, beaten
05 - 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
06 - 2 cups cooking oil
07 - Toothpicks for securing

→ Dry Ingredients

08 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
09 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
10 - 1 teaspoon fine salt

# Steps:

01 - Pair one large and one smaller onion ring to create a hollow ring. Slice mozzarella to fit the space between rings and secure with a toothpick.
02 - In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Dredge each stuffed onion ring in this mixture and place on a wire rack.
03 - Combine milk and beaten egg. Pour into the remaining dry mix and whisk until a smooth batter forms.
04 - Dip dredged onion rings in batter, let excess drip, then coat thoroughly in Panko breadcrumbs.
05 - Heat oil in a deep pot. Fry onion rings until one side is golden brown, then flip and fry the other side.
06 - Remove toothpicks, drain excess oil, and serve warm with dipping sauce if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Double coating ensures an extra crispy texture and helps seal the melted cheese inside the onion rings.
02 - Toothpicks must be removed before serving to ensure safety and enjoyment.
03 - For best results, serve hot with a tomato-based dipping sauce.