Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Directions

1. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, barbecue sauce and chipotle powder. Mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Prepare the onions: Peel onions and slice into 1/2-inch-thick rings. Separate rings and pair similarly sized rings together (one inside the other) to create thicker, sturdier rings. Use the larger rings and reserve smaller inner rings for another use.

3. Par-cook the onions: Place paired onion rings on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 30 seconds. This helps soften the onions so they cook evenly. Let cool slightly before handling.

4. Make the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, and soy sauce (or teriyaki sauce). Reserve 1/4 cup of the glaze in a separate bowl for finishing.

5. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Wrap each onion ring tightly with bacon, slightly overlapping slices and tucking the ends underneath to secure. Use about 2 slices of bacon per ring. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Dip each wrapped ring into the glaze, coating well, and place on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 35 minutes. Carefully flip the rings and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. Watch closely during the final 10 minutes, as the sugars in the glaze can brown quickly.

8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Brush with the reserved glaze. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm with Smoky Chipotle Dipping Sauce.

9. Air Fryer Instructions: Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Wrap rings with bacon as directed (no need to par-cook the onions). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crisp and cooked through.