Want more keto appetizers? Try my keto french fries, keto fried pickles, or zucchini fries next. This may be controversial, but between fries and onion rings, I’m an onion ring guy. Maybe it’s the texture, or maybe it’s the balance of tender, sweet onions coated in a savory breading. They’ve been an indulgence of mine for years, and this low-carb version allows me to enjoy them guilt-free!
Why I love this recipe
Multiple cooking methods. I prefer my onion rings deep-fried and golden, but I also included air fryer and oven methods! The breading does NOT fall off the onions. I can attest that this is the #1 problem of homemade onion rings, but with my recipe, I’ve never had that problem. The perfect texture and flavor. The breading is crispy and crunchy, while the onions remain soft and sweet. Accidentally gluten-free! There are no grains and no flour, making these low-carb AND gluten-free onion rings.
Ingredients needed
Onions. I tried white onions and yellow onions (AKA Vidalia onions) and preferred the sweet, mild flavor of white onions. Cut them into ½-inch slices. Almond flour. I suggest using blanched almond flour, not almond meal. Flour keeps the breading light and adheres better to the onions. Keto bread crumbs. Essentially ground pork rinds, these mimic the texture of panko bread crumbs. Eggs. To help the bread crumbs stick to the onions. Salt and black pepper. To taste. Oil. Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or avocado oil.
How to make keto onion rings
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Step 1- Prep. Add the almond flour, salt, and pepper in one bowl, add the bread crumbs in a second bowl, and whisk the eggs in a third bowl. Step 2- Dredge. Dip one onion slice in the egg mixture, then the almond flour mixture, then the eggs again, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off the excess coating and set aside. Repeat with remaining onion slices. Step 3- Fry. Add one inch of oil to a deep pot. Once the oil reaches 350F/180C, fry the onions for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. Transfer the fried onion rings to a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with remaining onions.
Arman’s recipe tips
Don’t let them overcook. Keto breadcrumbs don’t get as golden as traditional breadcrumbs, which means your onion rings may LOOK like they’re not fully cooked even though they are. If you’re uncertain, taste one to check. Cut the onions into thick rings. Thin onions won’t hold onto the batter and can burn more easily. I try to only use onions that are around ½-inches thick. Minimize the onion flavor. If you’d like a less intense onion flavor, soak the onions in cold water for 10 minutes prior to battering and frying them. Use the one wet hand, one dry hand method. Keep one hand dry and use the other to dip the onions in the wet mixture to keep the messiness to a minimum. Add spices. Crush pork rinds with paprika, garlic powder, or parmesan cheese for more flavor.
Storage instructions
To store: Leftover onion rings can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To freeze: Place cooked onion rings in a shallow container and store them in the freezer for up to two months. Reheating: Reheat onion rings in the oven at 200C/400F for 5-6 minutes.
What to serve with low-carb onion rings
Bison burgers Keto ranch dressing Sugar-free ketchup Sugar-free BBQ sauce
