Low Sugar Crispy Leek Rings
Those dark green leek tops that usually end up in the compost bin are the real star here, transformed into shatteringly crisp rings that taste like the lovechild of an onion ring and a gourmet bar snack. The batter is built from lactose-free milk spiked with lemon juice, which thickens into a tangy, egg-enriched coating that clings beautifully to every layer of leek. A blend of gluten-free breadcrumbs, white rice flour, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne gives each ring a deeply golden, spiced crust with genuine crunch. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of added sugar — no sweetened breadcrumbs, no sugary dipping sauce required — so what you taste is pure savory satisfaction. The wire rack resting step is the quiet secret to success, letting the coating set so it doesn't slide off the moment it hits the hot oil. Finished with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon, these are the kind of snack that disappears before they even make it to the table.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the leek rings
- 3 large leeks, dark green tops only, cut into ½-inch rings
For the batter
- 1 cup lactose-free whole milk
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the coating
- 1 cup gluten free breadcrumbs
- ½ cup white rice flour
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For frying
- ½ cup neutral oil (such as canola or sunflower oil), for frying
For serving
- flaky sea salt, for serving (optional)
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Trim the leeks, discarding the root ends and all white and light-green portions — use only the dark green tops. Slice the dark green tops crosswise into 1/2-inch rings and separate the layers into individual rings. Rinse the rings thoroughly in a colander under cold water, then spread on a clean kitchen towel and pat completely dry.
- 2
Stir together the lactose-free milk and lemon juice in a shallow bowl and let stand for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Whisk in the egg, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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