Fried Pickles
Fried Pickles are a crispy, tangy Southern-inspired snack featuring dill pickle slices coated in a seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection. They offer a delightful crunch paired with the zesty flavor of pickles, making them an irresistible appetizer or party treat that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Pickles
- Dill pickle slices or spears, well drained
Batter Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Optional: Cornmeal or gluten-free breadcrumbs
Batter Wet Ingredients
- Eggs
- Milk or buttermilk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
Frying
- Vegetable oil or canola oil (neutral oil with high smoke point) for frying
- Prepare the Pickles: Drain the pickles well, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the batter adheres better and prevents sogginess during frying.
- Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optionally cornmeal or breadcrumbs. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with milk or buttermilk until smooth.
- Coat the Pickles: Dip each pickle slice first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge it into the dry flour mixture, pressing lightly to create an even coating.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer to cover the pickles halfway and heat to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to maintain temperature for even frying.
- Fry Until Golden: Fry the coated pickles in small batches without overcrowding, cooking 2-3 minutes per side or until crispy and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli. Alternatively, keep warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Notes
- Dry pickles well to ensure a crispier crust and reduce oil splatter during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and less greasy results.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and temperature drops, which can cause soggy coating.
- Use fresh oil for a cleaner flavor and crispier texture.
- Drain fried pickles on paper towels before serving to keep them crispy longer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Fried Pickles, Southern Snack, Appetizer, Crispy Pickles, Gluten-Free Fried Pickles, Party Snacks