Cheesy Stuffed Onion Rings

Lord Honey, you just can't beat a homemade onion ring. My "Cheesy Stuffed Onion Rings" are just the right bite as an appetizer or with any meal--from a simple cheeseburger, a juicy steak or even a big slice of meatloaf. Try 'em out and let me know whatcha think.

Cheesy Stuffed Onion Rings

Jason Smith, FNS

southerncountrybling.com

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2-large onions

16 ounces cream cheese, room temp

2-cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

1-TBSP Worcestershire sauce

2-tsp onion powder

1-tsp salt

1-tsp ground black pepper

1-jalapeno, minced fine

2-cups cornmeal

3-eggs

2-tsp water

Oil for frying

Dipping Sauce:

¼-cup minced white onion (I used the smallest rings from onion above)

¼-cup minced red bell pepper

½-minced jalapheno

1-tsp garlic powder

1-tsp dried dill

½-tsp dried oregano

Salt & pepper to taste

1-cup sour cream

¼-cup buttermilk

½-cup mayo

Directions:

· Slice each onion into 3 thick round slices, separate the rings, save the very small rings for sauce.

· In a mixing bowl place, the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, spices and jalapeno; mix together.

· Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lay out the biggest rings, fit the smaller rings into the larger rings, leaving a ½-inch opening between the.

· Stuff the cream cheese mix in between the gap, making sure its smooth.

· Once all rings are stuffed, place in freezer for 4 hours or overnight.

· When ready to fry, place about 3 inches of oil into a heavy pot or Dutch oven; turn to medium heat, bring temp to 350°. Use a kitchen thermometer to do this.

· Place the cornmeal in a shallow bowl.

· In another bowl, place the eggs and water and beat very well.

·Dip the stuffed onion rings in the egg mixture, then roll the rings in the cornmeal; repeat the egg dip and the cornmeal coating; place back on the tray; repeat until all rings are coated.

-- Place 3-4 onion rings in hot oil; fry until golden crispy. This will take about 2-3 mins per side.

· To make the dipping sauce, place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.

Tip: You can do this with any type and color onion.

ENJOY!!!