Crispy Texas Onion Rings

3-4 large Texas 1015 onions 

2-3 c. buttermilk 

1 c. all-purpose flour 

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder 

1 tsp. salt 

1/4 tsp. red pepper 

2/3 c. water 

1 beaten egg 

1 T. vegetable oil 

1 tsp. lemon juice 

vegetable oil for frying salt, if desired 

Peel and slice onions into separate rings. Pour buttermilk into a large shallow pan. Add onion rings and soak 30 minutes. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, red pepper, water, egg, 1 T. oil, and lemon juice; stir until smooth. Heat oil to 375 degrees. Remove onion rings from buttermilk and dip into batter. Fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper. Sprinkle with salt, if desired.