Homemade Crunchy Fried Pickles
Fried pickles are a delightful Southern tradition, combining tangy dill pickles with a satisfyingly crunchy coating. Whether you’ve enjoyed them at a local fair, a festival, or a family gathering, this popular snack is always a crowd-pleaser. Their crispy golden exterior paired with the zesty, juicy pickle inside makes them an irresistible treat.
While fried pickles are a staple in Southern comfort food, you don’t have to wait for your next visit to a restaurant or fair to indulge. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these crispy delights right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing appetizers for a get-together, or simply craving a tasty snack, homemade fried pickles are a fantastic choice.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ease but in its versatility. You can customize the spices to suit your taste, experimenting with different seasonings to create your perfect flavor combination. Plus, they pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic ranch to spicy mayo, adding even more flavor to every bite.
Ingredients:
1 jar (24 oz) sliced dill pickles.
1 cup all-purpose flour.
1 tsp paprika.
1/2 tsp garlic powder.
1/2 tsp onion powder.
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
Salt and pepper, to taste.
2 large eggs.
1/2 cup buttermilk.
1 cup cornmeal.
Vegetable oil, for frying.
Instructions:
Step 1
Drain the pickle slices and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2
In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Step 3
In a second bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.
Step 4
In a third bowl, add the cornmeal.
Step 5
Dip each pickle slice in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 6
Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
Step 7
Finally, coat it with cornmeal, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
Step 8
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
Step 9
Fry the pickles in small batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
Step 10
Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried pickles to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 11
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce.
Pro Tips:
Dry pickles well to help the coating stick better and get crispier.
Keep oil hot around 375°F to avoid soggy or burnt pickles.
Serve immediately for the best crunch, or keep warm in a 200°F oven.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 6 servings):
Calories: 250
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g