Onion straws are thin, crispy and flavorful slices of onions that are fried to perfection. They can be served as a savory snack or as a topping to your favorite dishes. One ounce (28g) serving of onion straws contains approximately 80 calories.

Onion straws are an excellent source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C and Iron that help maintain a healthy immune system, and prevent anemia.

In this article, we'll explore what onion straws are, their nutritional benefits, how to make them, and some delicious recipes to try out.

What are Onion Straws?

Onion straws are made from thinly sliced onions that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then deep fried until crispy. They are similar to onion rings, but the slices are much thinner and crispier. They are commonly served as an appetizer or a garnish for salads and sandwiches. They add a delicious crunch and onion flavor to any dish. Most restaurants that serve burgers and sandwiches have onion straws on their menu. Onion straws can be bought at grocery stores or made at home with a few simple ingredients. They are affordable, delicious, and easy to prepare.

Benefits of Eating Onion Straws

Onion straws are a healthier alternative to traditional French fries and onion rings. They are low in calories, contain dietary fiber and are rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin C and quercetin. Antioxidants are important because they help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which is linked to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Fiber is essential for digestive health, and it helps promote feelings of fullness and satiety, making onion straws a great snack option.

How to Make Onion Straws

Ingredients: - 1 large onion - ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp black pepper.

Onion Straws vs Onion Rings

Onion rings and onion straws share a lot of similarities, but they are different in texture, size, and flavor. Onion straws are much thinner and crispier than onion rings, making them perfect for snacking or as a topping on dishes such as burgers or salads. Onion rings, on the other hand, are thicker, chewier, and have a larger diameter. They are often served as a side dish with dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

Nutritional Value of Onion Straws

A 1 oz (28 g) serving of onion straws contains: - 80 calories - 2g protein, 12g carbs, and 2g fat.

Healthy Ways to Eat Onion Straws

To make onion straws a healthy snack, try baking them instead of deep frying them. You can also use a healthier flour alternative such as almond flour or coconut flour. Another great way to enjoy onion straws is by adding them to salads for an extra crunch and flavor. They also pair well with grilled chicken, sandwiches, and burgers.

What to Pair with Onion Straws

Onion straws pair well with a variety of dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also go well with BBQ chicken, pulled pork, and grilled veggies. For a dipping sauce, try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or chipotle mayo.

Onion Straw Recipes

1. Onion Straw Burger Topping Ingredients: - 1 oz onion straws, 1 burger patty, 1 slice of cheese, 1 onion, 1 tomato, 1 lettuce leaf, and your favorite burger sauce.

Are Onion Straws Gluten-Free?

Onion straws are typically made with all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can make gluten-free onion straws by using alternative flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, or tapioca flour. If you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it's essential to check the ingredients before consuming onion straws.

Where to Find Onion Straws

Onion straws can be found at most grocery stores in the snack or chip aisle. They can also be ordered online or purchased at specialty food stores. If you prefer to make your own onion straws, you can purchase sliced onions and flour at the grocery store.