After they are cooked, they look like shredded tobacco.

5 cups peanut or other light oil
2 large yellow or sweet onions,
    peeled and sliced very, very thin
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Heat oil to 350 degrees F on a food thermometer in a deep saucepan over medium heat. Combine remaining ingredients in a medium-size bowl and carefully toss to coat onions. Remove onions from flour mixture, shaking to remove excess. Fry a few slices at a time for about 10 minutes or until crisp and golden brown. Repeat until all onions are fried. Drain on paper towel.