Onion Blossom

Vegetable oil for frying
1 large Vidalia onion
3 cups cold water
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup beer or club soda
1/2 cup milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preheat oil in a large sauce pan to 375' F. Peel onion and cut off the bottom, leaving a flat surface. Cut into 3/4-inch wedges, but do not cut all the way through.

Soak onion in ice cold water until wedges open, about 20 minutes; drain and pat dry. Mix eggs, beer and milk in a medium bowl. Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.

Dip onion in egg mixture, then into flour mixture. Dip again into egg mixture then flour mixture, making sure onion is well coated.

Place onion in hot oil. Deep-fry until golden brown and tender, about 15 minutes; drain on paper towels. Place onion on a serving plate. Sprinkle with salt and cayenne pepper. Serve with dip.

Blue Cheese Dip

Combine 1/4 c crumbled blue cheese, 1(8oz) bottle ranch dressing or buttermilk dressing and 1/2 tsp. garlic salt. Stir in 2 Tbsp. mayo. Mix well.