Fried pickles are a beloved Southern snack, often enjoyed at fairs and festivals, but they can be easily made at home. Their delightful combination of a crunchy, golden exterior with a zesty, juicy pickle inside makes them the perfect appetizer or snack. With this simple recipe, you can recreate the magic of fried pickles in your own kitchen.
Fried Pickles at Home
Ingredients:
- 1 jar (24 oz) of sliced dill pickles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
1. Prep the Pickles
Drain the pickle slices and pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drying the pickles ensures that the batter adheres well and creates a crispy coating.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Pour the cornmeal into another bowl.
3. Bread the Pickles
- Dredge each pickle slice in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured pickle slice into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat the pickle slice in the cornmeal, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Fry the Pickles
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a large skillet to fully submerge the pickles. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the pickles in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried pickles to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the fried pickles hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce.
Tips for Making Perfect Fried Pickles:
- Dry the pickles: Properly drying the pickle slices before breading helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier finish.
- Monitor the oil temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F (190°C) to avoid soggy or burnt pickles. If the oil is too cool, the pickles will absorb too much oil; if it’s too hot, the coating can burn before the pickles are fully cooked.
- Serve immediately: Fried pickles are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oil. To keep them warm until serving, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven.
Conclusion
Fried pickles are a fantastic snack that adds a bit of Southern flair to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving a crunchy, tangy treat, these homemade fried pickles will be a hit. Try this recipe and watch how quickly they disappear!