Description
Crispy Fried Pickles are a popular Southern appetizer featuring dill pickle slices coated in a seasoned batter and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, then deep-fried to golden perfection. This easy-to-make snack is best served hot with a side of creamy Ranch dressing for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about ½ inch deep)
Pickle Batter
- 1 (16-ounce) jar dill pickle slices
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¾ cup water
Breading
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Fill a frying pan with ½ inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350–375°F, ideal for achieving a crisp, golden fry.
- Prepare the pickles: Drain the pickle slices from the jar and place them on paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which helps the batter stick better and prevents splattering while frying.
- Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Gradually add water while mixing until you achieve a smooth, cohesive batter ready for coating the pickles.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a separate shallow dish, setting up for the final coating step after battering.
- Coat the pickles: Working in batches, dip each pickle slice into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated, then immediately dredge it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to cover all sides evenly.
- Fry the pickles: Carefully place the coated pickles into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side or until they turn a delicious golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the fried pickles with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, ideally with Ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature to ensure crispy, not greasy, fried pickles.
- Patting the pickles dry is essential for the batter to adhere properly.
- You can substitute Ranch dressing with your favorite dip like blue cheese or spicy mayo.
- Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest texture.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and prevent sogginess.
