My Amish pal showed up with these dudes at the potluck and they were a total hit!

Embark on a culinary journey to the heartland with these Cheesy Amish Onion Fritters. Drawing from the simplicity and tradition of Amish cooking, this beloved dish is renowned for its unpretentious ingredients and comforting flavors. Originating from the Pennsylvania Dutch, these fritters reflect a community-centered cuisine that is all about sharing hearty, homemade food with loved ones. Whether you’re looking to add a rustic touch to your dinner table or simply craving something delightfully savory, these fritters are a perfect choice.

These aromatic fritters are divine on their own or with a dollop of sour cream. However, they really shine when paired with a fresh green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or alongside a bowl of steaming tomato soup. For a true Amish-inspired meal, serve them with sautéed apples and a slice of thick-cut smoked bacon.

Cheesy Amish Onion Fritters
Servings: Makes about 12 fritters

Ingredients

– 2 large yellow onions, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Start by preheating your fryer or a deep pan with oil to 365°F (185°C)—the proper temperature for achieving that desirable golden crust.

2. While the oil heats up, take a large mixing bowl and combine your dry components: flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they’re fully integrated.

4. Merge the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, folding them together until just combined to ensure your fritters are tender.

5. Fold in the chopped onions and shredded cheese, mixing tenderly to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

6. Once the oil reaches the targeted temperature, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil. Do not overcrowd the pan to allow each fritter space to cook and turn golden brown.

7. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until the fritters are puffed up and boast a beautiful golden brown hue.

8. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

9. Serve your hot, crispy fritters immediately for the ultimate taste and texture experience.

Variations & Tips

– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a smoked gouda for additional depth.
– If you’re catering to a gluten-free diet, substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free blend.
– To keep the fritters warm whilst preparing in batches, simply place them in a preheated oven at 200°F until ready to serve.
– Don’t skip on resting the fritters on paper towels; it’s essential for that perfect, non-greasy crunch.
– The consistency of the batter should be similar to thick pancake batter; if it’s too thick, add a touch more milk, too runny, and just add a bit more flour. The key is to find that happy medium for the ideal fritter.