### Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings
#### Introduction
**Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings** are a delicious twist on the classic onion ring. These crispy, golden-brown onion rings are stuffed with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese, creating a perfect combination of savory and cheesy goodness. The crunchy outer layer, combined with the stretchy, melty cheese filling, makes for an irresistible snack or appetizer. Ideal for game day, parties, or just as a fun treat, mozzarella stuffed onion rings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
#### Ingredients & Quantity
**Ingredients:**
– 2 large onions (cut into thick rings)
– 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded or cut into small cubes)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs (beaten)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
**Optional Additions:**
– A dash of cayenne pepper for heat
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
– Marinara sauce or ranch dressing (for dipping)
#### Tips for Success
1. **Choose Large Onions**: Larger onions provide enough space for stuffing and ensure that each ring has a generous amount of cheese.
2. **Stuffing the Rings**: Be gentle when stuffing the mozzarella into the onion rings to avoid breaking the onion or cheese spilling out during frying.
3. **Fry in Batches**: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches to ensure the rings cook evenly and remain crispy.
4. **Temperature of Oil**: Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) to fry the onion rings. If the oil is too cool, the rings will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
5. **Use Panko for Extra Crispiness**: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier coating that adds texture to the rings.
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Onions**: Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings, about 1/2-inch wide. Carefully separate the rings, ensuring you have a few large rings that can hold the mozzarella filling.
2. **Stuff the Onion Rings**: Take one large onion ring and stuff it with shredded mozzarella cheese (or a small block of mozzarella). You can gently press the cheese into the ring and cover it with another onion ring, ensuring the cheese is tightly enclosed. Repeat with the remaining rings.
3. **Prepare the Breading Stations**: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
– In the first bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
– In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
– In the third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
4. **Bread the Onion Rings**: Dip each stuffed onion ring first into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat for all the stuffed onion rings.
5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
6. **Fry the Onion Rings**: Carefully lower a few stuffed onion rings into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the rings and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. **Serve**: Allow the mozzarella stuffed onion rings to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional), and serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
#### Description
Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings are a delightful fusion of two classic snacks: mozzarella sticks and onion rings. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the inside is filled with melted, stretchy mozzarella cheese that oozes out with each bite. The savory onion flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella, making these stuffed onion rings a savory, indulgent treat. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or a side dish, they are sure to impress anyone who loves crispy, cheesy goodness.
#### Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 2-3 onion rings)
– **Calories**: 180-220 kcal (depending on size and amount of cheese)
– **Fat**: 12g
– **Saturated Fat**: 6g
– **Carbohydrates**: 20g
– **Sugar**: 2g
– **Protein**: 7g
– **Sodium**: 350mg
– **Fiber**: 2g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the size of the onion rings and specific ingredients used.)
#### Conclusion
Mozzarella Stuffed Onion Rings offer a savory and indulgent snack that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy onions and gooey, melty mozzarella cheese is irresistible, making them a favorite at parties, game nights, or even as a special treat during the week. These stuffed onion rings are simple to prepare, and with the right balance of seasoning and frying, they come out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time.
#### Recommendation
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese filling. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could bake the stuffed onion rings in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying them. Either way, you’ll enjoy these delicious and cheesy treats!