ONION RINGS

Got this from a magazine. Ruther loves onion rings so I'll prepare this for him when we're together...

1 C buttermilk
1 bottle vegetable oil
breading powder
1/2 C all-purpose flour
2 pcs white onion
salt and pepper
ground red pepper (optional)

Heat oil in a deep pan. Mix the breading powder and flour in a separate bowl. Season with a bit of salt and pepper and even ground red pepper if you prefer. Slice onions crosswise into 1/2 inch-thick slices. Separate slices into rings. Working in batches, dip onion rings in buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off into bowl. Toss rings in flour mixture until well coated; gently shake off excess. Repeat process with remaining onions, buttermilk and flour mixture. With long-handled tongs, carefully place one quarter of onion rings in hot oil. Cook 3-4 minutes, turning rings a few times, until onions are golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Repeat process with remaining onion rings. Arrange fried onion rings on a large serving dish. Sprinkle with some salt and maybe ground red pepper. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.