Fried Pickles Recipe (with Video)

Fried Pickles Recipe: Who doesn’t love a crunchy, tangy snack that’s both indulgent and easy to make? Fried pickles are a delightful treat that has gained popularity as a crowd-pleaser at parties, barbecues, and even as a standalone snack. Originating from the southern United States, this crispy creation is a favorite appetizer that pairs beautifully with dips like ranch or spicy mayo.

Why make them at home? Because homemade fried pickles are fresher, customizable, and simply more satisfying than store-bought or restaurant versions. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up with just a few basic ingredients and tools.

Ingredients Required

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup dill pickle slices (or spears, depending on preference)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or cornmeal for extra crunch

Optional Ingredients

• Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy kick)
• Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill
• Hot sauce (a splash in the batter for spice)

Choosing the Right Pickles

Pickles are the star of the show, so choose wisely! Dill pickles are the most common choice, but bread-and-butter pickles can add a sweet twist. Opt for firm pickles with a good crunch to ensure they hold up during frying.

Equipment Needed

• Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or frying spider
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Paper towels or a cooling rack

Having these tools handy ensures a smooth and mess-free frying process.

Preparing the Pickles

1. Selecting the Pickles: Whether you’re using slices or spears, ensure they are fresh and firm. Avoid pickles that are too soft, as they can become mushy when fried.
2. Slicing Pickles: If you have whole pickles, slice them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
3. Drying Pickles: Pat the pickles dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the batter stick better and prevents splattering when frying.

Making the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and any optional flavoring like hot sauce.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or buttermilk.

This flavorful batter is the key to that golden, crispy crust.

Coating the Pickles

1. Set up a coating station with the batter and a bowl of breadcrumbs or cornmeal.
2. Dip each pickle slice into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Roll the battered pickle in the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of crunch.

Pro tip: Work in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure each pickle is evenly coated.

Frying the Pickles

1. Choosing the Right Oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils ensure the pickles fry evenly without imparting any unwanted flavors.
2. Heating the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or pot to cover the pickles completely. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the temperature, as oil that’s too hot will burn the batter, and oil that’s too cool will result in soggy pickles.
3. Frying Process: Carefully lower the coated pickles into the hot oil using tongs. Fry them in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping and to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Removing the Pickles: Once done, use a slotted spoon or spider to lift the pickles out of the oil. Allow any excess oil to drip back into the pan before transferring them to a prepared surface.

Draining and Cooling

1. Draining Excess Oil: Place the fried pickles on a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial to soak up any extra oil and maintain their crispiness.
2. Cooling: Allow the fried pickles to cool slightly before serving. This not only improves their texture but also ensures they’re not too hot to enjoy.

For best results, serve them immediately after cooling for a short while to preserve their crunch.

Serving Fried Pickles

The presentation of fried pickles can elevate your dish and make it even more appetizing:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve them with classic ranch dressing, spicy mayo, honey mustard, or a tangy barbecue sauce. Want to take it up a notch? Try a blue cheese dip or chipotle aioli for a gourmet twist.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
• Plating: Arrange them in a circular pattern on a platter or stack them like a tower for an Instagram-worthy presentation.

These crunchy delights are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though they’re so good, you probably won’t!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

1. Storage: Place the cooled fried pickles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days.
2. Reheating: To bring back their crispiness, avoid microwaving. Instead, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. This method restores their crunchy texture without making them soggy.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Fried Pickles

1. Common Mistakes to Avoid:
   • Overcrowding the frying pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pickles.
   • Using wet pickles without drying them first, leading to batter that doesn’t stick.
2. Enhancing Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or even grated cheese to the batter for extra pizzazz.
3. Healthier Options: For a lighter version, try baking or air frying the pickles. While they won’t be as indulgent, they’ll still deliver a satisfying crunch.

Variations of Fried Pickles

1. Different Types of Pickles: Experiment with sweet pickles, spicy pickles, or gherkins for unique flavor profiles.
2. Creative Batters: Swap breadcrumbs for panko, or use tempura batter for a lighter, crispier coating.
3. Baked vs. Fried: To bake, coat the pickles as usual and place them on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Pairing Fried Pickles with Meals

Fried pickles are versatile and pair well with many dishes:

• Ideal Occasions: Serve them at parties, game nights, or summer barbecues.
• Beverage Pairings: Pair with cold beer, lemonade, or a crisp white wine to complement the tangy, savory flavors.
• Meal Suggestions: Add them as a side to burgers, grilled sandwiches, or fried chicken for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

A serving of fried pickles (depending on size and ingredients) typically contains:

• Calories: 200-300 per serving
• Protein: 3-5 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Carbs: 20-30 grams

For a healthier alternative, substitute the batter with whole wheat flour or skip the breadcrumbs.

FAQs about Fried Pickles Recipe

1. What type of pickles should I use for making fried pickles?

For the best fried pickles, use dill pickles sliced either into chips or spears. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid soggy breading.

2. Can I use a different type of breading for fried pickles?

Yes! While traditional recipes use a mixture of flour and cornmeal, you can also use breadcrumbs or panko for a crunchier texture. Experiment to find your preferred coating.

3. What oil is best for frying pickles?

Use oils with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil for frying pickles. These ensure a crispy finish without any burnt taste.

4. How do I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?

To keep the breading intact, pat the pickle slices dry before coating them in flour, then dip them in beaten egg, and finally in your breading mix. Make sure each layer is well-coated.

5. Are fried pickles vegan?

Fried pickles can be made vegan by using a milk alternative or water in the batter and ensuring the breading is free from animal products.

6. What dipping sauces pair well with fried pickles?

Fried pickles are commonly served with ranch dressing. However, they also go well with other sauces like spicy mayo, horseradish, or garlic aioli for added flavor.

7. How long do fried pickles last?

Fried pickles are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat them in an oven to restore some crispiness.

Conclusion

Fried pickles are a simple yet delicious treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a unique snack, this recipe is a must-try. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, you’ll achieve golden, crispy perfection every time. So why wait? Get your pickles, heat up the oil, and dive into this tangy, crunchy goodness.