Fried Pickles

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American (Southern)

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Description

Fried pickles are a delicious Southern snack featuring crispy, tangy dill pickles coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. They’re perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or party food. Serve them with ranch dressing or spicy aioli for dipping!

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Ingredients

For the Fried Pickles:

• 1 (16 oz) jar dill pickle chips (or spears, sliced into rounds)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)

• 1 egg

• 1 cup cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For Serving:

• Ranch dressing

• Spicy aioli (mix mayo with hot sauce or sriracha)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

1. Drain the pickles and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the batter stick better.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

1. First Bowl: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.

2. Second Bowl: Whisk together buttermilk and egg.

3. Third Bowl: Place cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Pickles

1. Dip each pickle slice into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

2. Next, dip into the buttermilk-egg mixture.

3. Finally, coat in cornmeal or breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

4. Place breaded pickles on a wire rack or plate while heating the oil.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 inches of oil to 375°F (190°C).

2. Use a thermometer for accuracy—too cold, and they’ll be greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn.

Step 5: Fry the Pickles

1. Working in batches, carefully add pickles to the hot oil.

2. Fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy.

3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

1. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still hot.

2. Serve with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, ~10 pieces)

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and frying method.)

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Tips for the Best Fried Pickles

✅ Dry the pickles well – Excess moisture makes the coating soggy.
✅ Keep oil hot – Maintain 375°F (190°C) for maximum crispiness.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
✅ Use cornmeal or panko – These add extra crunch compared to flour alone.
✅ Serve immediately – Fried pickles are best eaten fresh!

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Variations

🌶 Spicy Version – Add ½ tsp cayenne or hot sauce to the batter.
🧀 Cheesy Version – Mix ¼ cup grated Parmesan into the breading.
🍺 Beer Batter – Replace buttermilk with cold beer for a lighter, crispier texture.

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Conclusion

These Crispy Fried Pickles are an irresistible snack with the perfect balance of tangy, crunchy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty treat, this recipe is quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!