Appetizers

Best Fried Pickles

Fried pickles are a delightful snack that bring together savory, tangy, and crunchy textures in one bite. Perfect as an appetizer or a party treat, they pack a flavor punch that simply can’t be resisted. With a crispy coating and juicy pickle inside, these Best Fried Pickles are a true crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 280
Protein: 5 grams
Carbohydrates: 36 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 610 mg

Why Make This Best Fried Pickles

Making the Best Fried Pickles at home is not only easy, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. With a crispy exterior and a juicy, tangy interior, these fried pickles are the perfect treat to share with friends and family. They’re an ideal finger food for game nights, parties, or simply as a comforting snack on a cozy evening. Plus, they’re incredibly satisfying to make and eat!

How to Make Best Fried Pickles

Ingredients:

1 jar dill pickles
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup buttermilk
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Drain pickles and pat dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, ensuring that the coating adheres properly and the pickles fry up crispy.

Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination of dry ingredients creates a flavorful and crunchy coating for your fried pickles.

Step 3: Coating

Dip each pickle slice in buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture until coated. Make sure each slice is evenly coated for the best texture and flavor.

Step 4: Cooking

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the pickles in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 5: Finishing

Remove the fried pickles and drain on paper towels. This helps to absorb any excess oil, keeping them nice and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Best Fried Pickles

These Best Fried Pickles are best served warm and can be paired with various dipping sauces. Ranch dressing is a classic choice, but you could also try spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. They make an excellent side dish at barbecues or as a starter at gatherings.

How to Store Best Fried Pickles

If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results, as this will help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them, as they can turn soggy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Best Fried Pickles

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy pickles. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of the coating mixture into it – it should sizzle immediately.
For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Experiment with different kinds of pickles, such as spicy or bread-and-butter pickles for varied flavor profiles.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Delicious Variations

Cheese-Stuffed Pickles: For extra richness, try stuffing your pickles with cheese before frying.
Buffalo Style: Toss the finished fried pickles in hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Herb Mix: Add dried herbs to the flour mixture, such as oregano or thyme, for an herby flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pickles?
Yes! Feel free to use bread-and-butter pickles, spicy pickles, or even zucchini slices for a fun twist.
Can I make fried pickles in advance?
While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can prepare the pickles and coating in advance. Just fry them right before serving.
What’s the best frying oil to use?
Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are great options for frying due to their high smoke points.
Are fried pickles healthy?
While they are a delicious treat, fried pickles should be enjoyed in moderation. You can consider air frying them for a healthier option.
Can I freeze fried pickles?
You can freeze them before frying. Just coat them and lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer to a container for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

These Best Fried Pickles are a fantastic snack that bursts with flavor and offers a delightful crunch with every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home, they are sure to impress everyone who tries them. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a plate full of these delicious bites. Happy frying!