Instructions: In a large bowl combine buttermilk and baking soda; season well with salt and pepper. Peel onions and slice thinly, no thicker than 1/4-inch; a mandoline works well. Add to buttermilk mixture and stir well to submerge all onions. Set aside, unrefrigerated, for 2 hours.

In a deep-fryer or heavy, deep pot, heat at least 1 quart oil to 375 degrees. Working in batches, place about 1/6 of flour in a large bowl. With your hands, remove about 1/6 of onions from buttermilk. Dont let the liquid run off. Add to flour and mix vigorously with your hands until onions are well-coated. Separate them by hand and lay them in a deep-fry basket. Lower into hot oil, maintaining temperature. Stir every 2 minutes. When onions are golden brown and crisp, about 6 minutes, drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Keep warm in a 200 degree oven while you finish the rest.

This recipe yields 6 servings.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.