French-Fried Onion Rings in Beer Batter

These light, crisp onion rings have a batter featuring a hint of beer flavor. The batter may also be used for fresh mushrooms.

1-1/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons shortening
1 egg, beaten
1 cup beer
1 large sweet Spanish onion
Oil for deep frying

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Add egg and beer; beat until smooth.

Cut onion into 1/4-inch-thick slices; separate into rings.

Using a fork, immerse a few onion rings at a time in the batter. Lift out; allow excess batter to drip off. Drop into hot oil (375 degrees). Fry until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Makes about 50 to 60 rings; 6 to 8 servings