Fried pickles are a delightful snack or appetizer, combining the tangy flavor of pickles with a perfectly crispy coating. This Southern classic is quick to make and delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving a savory treat, fried pickles are always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
- The crispy coating contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tangy pickles.
- Can be served with various dipping sauces for added flavor.
- A unique twist on traditional appetizers that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Dill pickle slices
- All-purpose flour
- Cornmeal
- Baking powder
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Buttermilk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare the pickles: Drain the pickle slices and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the wet ingredients: In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
- Coat the pickles: Dip each pickle slice into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the dry mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the pickles: Carefully place the coated pickles into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain and serve: Remove the pickles with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Fried Pickles: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry mixture for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Air Fryer Method: For a lighter option, cook the coated pickles in an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Breaded Pickles: Use breadcrumbs instead of cornmeal for a different texture.
- Different Pickles: Try using bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles for unique flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole pickles instead of slices?
Yes, but it’s best to cut them into chips or spears to ensure even frying.
2. What dipping sauces pair well with fried pickles?
Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, honey mustard, or even a tangy BBQ sauce work wonderfully.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Fried pickles are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the coating ahead and fry them just before serving.
4. Do I need a deep fryer for this recipe?
No, a deep skillet or frying pan with enough oil to submerge the pickles will work fine.
5. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, oils with high smoke points like canola, peanut, or sunflower oil are great alternatives.
6. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Ensure the pickles are patted dry before coating and press the coating firmly onto each slice.
7. Can I freeze fried pickles?
Fried pickles are not ideal for freezing, as the texture can change upon reheating.
8. What kind of pickles work best?
Dill pickles are the classic choice, but you can experiment with other varieties.
9. How do I make them extra crispy?
Double-coat the pickles by repeating the dipping process before frying.
10. Are fried pickles vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian if using vegetable oil for frying.
Conclusion
Fried pickles are a fun, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to make at home. With a golden, crispy coating and a tangy interior, they’re perfect for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Print
Fried Pickles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned, these Fried Pickles are a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make at home and taste just like your favorite restaurant’s appetizer. Serve them with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for a snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- For the Pickles:
- 1 cup dill pickle slices (drained and patted dry)
- For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- For Frying:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickles:
Drain the pickles and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set aside. - Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk until smooth. - Bread the Pickles:
Dip each pickle slice into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for all slices. - Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). - Fry the Pickles:
Fry the coated pickles in small batches for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. - Serve:
Serve warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- These are best served immediately after frying, as they lose crispness over time.
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