If you’re craving a comforting and savory treat, these Amish Onion Patties are just what you need. Packed with flavor and crispy on the outside, these patties are a classic Amish dish that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, this recipe brings a taste of traditional Amish cooking to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons white granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal (self-rising or regular)
- 2 1/2 cups finely chopped yellow onions
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooking oil (Canola works well)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cornmeal. Mix in the finely chopped onions until they are well coated with the dry ingredients. Pour in the milk and stir until the batter is thick and well combined.
2. Heat the Oil: Pour about ½ inch of oil into a skillet (preferably cast iron) and heat it over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Patties: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Flatten each patty slightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Cook the patties on one side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. If necessary, add more oil to the skillet while frying in batches.
4. Drain and Season: Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with a little salt if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy: These onion patties are best enjoyed warm. They make a delightful snack or a flavorful side dish.
Notes
Thickness: For best results, keep the patties on the thinner side to ensure they cook through properly. Smaller, flatter patties work best.
Add-Ins: Customize your patties by adding 1/4 cup of crumbled crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or shredded Parmesan cheese to the batter. You can also sprinkle cheese on top before serving for an extra treat.
Garnish: Finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only add a splash of color but also enhance the flavor of the patties.
Spice Them Up: For a bit of heat, stir 1/4 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce into the batter.
Vegan Option: Substitute the milk with soy milk or another non-dairy milk to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder and cornmeal are gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Pairing: Amish Onion Patties are versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair well with a variety of dishes including roast meats, soups, and salads.
- Accompaniments: Serve the patties with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor. They also go well with applesauce or a fresh tomato salsa.
- Presentation: Garnish the patties with finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serving Temperature: These patties are delicious either warm or at room temperature. They make a great addition to any buffet or potluck.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover onion patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the patties on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid Sogginess: To keep patties crisp when storing, place them on a paper towel-lined plate or in a container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Reviving Crispiness: If the patties lose their crispiness after freezing or refrigeration, you can re-crisp them in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil or in the oven.
Variations:
1. Cheesy Onion Patties
Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese to the batter.
Details: The addition of cheese gives the patties a rich, gooey interior and a savory flavor. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of frying for an extra cheesy crust.
2. Bacon and Onion Patties
Ingredients: Incorporate 1/4 cup of crumbled crispy bacon into the batter.
Details: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the onions. For extra crunch, you can also cook the bacon until it’s very crispy before adding it to the batter.
3. Mushroom and Onion Patties
Ingredients: Sauté 1/4 cup of chopped mushrooms until tender and mix them into the batter.
Details: Mushrooms bring an earthy, umami flavor that pairs well with the onions. Make sure the mushrooms are cooked before adding them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
4. Herbed Onion Patties
Ingredients: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill to the batter.
Details: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and color to the patties. Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite combination.
5. Spicy Onion Patties
Ingredients: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the batter.
Details: For a spicy kick, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your heat preference. This variation adds a nice contrast to the sweet onions.
6. Sweet Onion Patties
Ingredients: Replace 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup.
Details: Adding honey or maple syrup introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the savory onions. This variation creates a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of natural sweetness.
7. Vegan Onion Patties
Ingredients: Substitute the milk with soy milk, almond milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice.
Details: To make the patties vegan, use a plant-based milk and ensure the cornmeal and flour are vegan-friendly. This variation is perfect for those following a vegan diet.
8. Gluten-Free Onion Patties
Ingredients: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure the baking powder and cornmeal are gluten-free.
Details: For a gluten-free option, replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend and check that all other ingredients are free of gluten. This variation allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the patties.
9. Onion and Zucchini Patties
Ingredients: Add 1 cup of finely grated zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture, to the batter.
Details: Zucchini adds a mild flavor and extra moisture. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too watery.
10. Onion and Bell Pepper Patties
Ingredients: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped bell peppers (any color) with the onions.
Details: Bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy element to the patties. They also introduce a splash of color and extra flavor.
FAQs:
1. Can I use different types of onions for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of onions such as red onions, green onions, or shallots. Each type of onion will impart a unique flavor to the patties, so choose according to your taste preference.
2. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
3. How do I keep the patties crispy after frying?
To keep the patties crispy, place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying. This allows excess oil to drain while keeping the patties crisp.
4. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the patties. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. How can I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients. You may need to cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can affect even cooking.
6. Can I freeze the onion patties before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
These Amish Onion Patties are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a crispy exterior and flavorful interior that’s sure to please. With the flexibility to customize and adapt the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs, you can enjoy this classic treat in a variety of ways. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal, these patties bring a taste of Amish tradition right to your table. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy-to-make recipe!