CRISPY VIDALIA ONION RINGS IN BUTTERMILK BATTER

Steps:

• In a 3-quart pot, preheat 4-inches oil to 375 degrees F.
• In a shallow bowl, combine flours, cayenne, paprika, salt, and white pepper. Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish.
• Toss the onion rings in the flour mixture and shake off excess flour. Add to buttermilk mixture and make sure the rings are thoroughly coated. With a clean hand, add rings to flour mix again and shake off any excess flour.
• Begin to fry in preheated oil in small batches, 1/4 of total amount at a time. Cook onion rings for about 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally with metal tongs or slotted spoon, until crispy and browned. Drain on paper towels and keep in warm place (low oven, about 200 degrees F) until ready to serve. Sprinkle with extra salt, if needed.
• In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, sweat onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add peppers and vegetable stock and stew until 1/2 of stock has evaporated. Add spices and chiles. Cover with vinegar and wine. Allow to cook, uncovered, until most of the liquid has evaporated. Let cool, then puree in a food processor, and season with pepper and salt, to taste.
• Yield: 3 cups Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour