Emeril'S Fried Maui Onion Rings

• 2 large maui onions, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch thick rings
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (Emeril recommends his own, of course)
• 1/4 cup spice essence (Also Emeril's)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying

1. Combine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl with 2 teaspoons of Essence. Add the onion rings and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, covered.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot to 360u0b0F.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with 2 tablespoons of the Essence. Dredge the onions in the seasoned flour, coating each ring evenly. Shake off any excess flour and carefully place the rings in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, turning to cook evenly and prevent sticking, about 3 minutes per batch. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season the fried onion rings with Essence, and repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Serve hot.

maui onions, buttermilk, hot sauce, spice, flour, peanut oil

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/emerils-fried-maui-onion-rings-156090 (may not work)