Crispy Onion Rings

INGREDIENTS

2-3 quarts vegetable oil, for frying
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal® Kosher Salt, divided, plus more for garnish
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 cup cold sparkling water or club soda
1 large egg
2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rings

DIRECTIONS

Heat oil in large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
Combine mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper in food processor, and pulse until smooth. Transfer to small serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Whisk together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, paprika, remaining kosher salt and remaining pepper in medium bowl.
Whisk together club soda and egg in measuring cup until well-combined. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until smooth.
Place remaining flour in shallow dish. Dredge onion rings in flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip floured onion rings into batter, allowing any excess to drip off, and fry in batches until golden-brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from oil and place onto paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Sprinkle with additional kosher salt. Serve with cilantro aioli.