Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickles
Indulge in these irresistible Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickles, a perfect snack or starter that delivers a delightful crunch with every bite. Whether you opt for tangy dill pickles or sweet varieties, these fried delights are sure to wow your taste buds. Every pickle spear is coated in a golden, seasoned breadcrumb crust that pairs perfectly with a side of creamy ranch dressing. Once you try them, you'll find it hard to stop at just one! Ideal for parties, game day, or simply enjoying at home, these fried pickles are a crunchy, savory treat that everyone will love.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oil
as needed (for frying, heated to 350°F (175°C))
Pickles
10 (whole or cut into spears)
Flour
1/2 cup (for coating)
Egg
1 (beaten)
Water
1 tablespoon (for the egg mixture)
Breadcrumbs
1 cup (for coating)
Seasoning Blend
1 tablespoon (of your choice (e.g., Montreal Steak Spice or Mrs. Dash))
Instructions
1
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2
While the oil heats, drain the pickles from their brine and blot them gently with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
3
In a ziptop bag, add the flour and the drained pickles. Seal the bag and shake vigorously until the pickles are evenly coated with flour.
4
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the egg and water until well combined.
5
In another ziptop bag, combine the breadcrumbs and your chosen seasoning blend, such as Montreal Steak Spice or Mrs. Dash.
6
Take one floured pickle, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then allow any excess egg to drip off before placing it in the breadcrumb bag.
7
Seal the breadcrumb bag and shake gently until the pickle is evenly coated with breadcrumbs.
8
Repeat the dipping and coating process for all pickles.
9
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated pickles to the oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
10
Fry the pickles for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking.
11
Remove the fried pickles using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
12
Serve warm with your favorite ranch dressing for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickles?
They are a popular Southern snack consisting of pickles coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and deep-fried until golden and crunchy.
What kind of pickles work best for this recipe?
You can use either tangy dill pickles or sweet varieties depending on your preference.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
What is the ideal oil temperature for frying pickles?
The oil should be heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying.
How should the pickles be prepared before breading?
Drain them from their brine and blot them gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
What is the first step in the coating process?
The first step is to coat the drained pickles in flour by shaking them in a ziptop bag.
What ingredients are used for the egg wash?
The egg wash is made by beating together one egg and one tablespoon of water.
What type of coating provides the final crunch?
A mixture of breadcrumbs and a seasoning blend provides the final crispy layer.
What seasonings are recommended for the breadcrumbs?
Montreal Steak Spice or Mrs. Dash are excellent choices, but you can use any seasoning blend you prefer.
How long do the pickles need to fry?
Fry the pickles for 2 to 3 minutes or until they reach a golden brown color.
How do you ensure the pickles are evenly cooked?
Turn the pickles occasionally while they are frying in the oil.
What is the best dipping sauce for fried pickles?
Creamy ranch dressing is the traditional and most recommended pairing.
Can I use whole pickles or just spears?
The recipe works well with both whole pickles and those cut into spears.
Why is it important to blot the pickles dry?
Blotting removes moisture which helps the flour adhere better and prevents the coating from becoming soggy.
How do I coat the pickles in breadcrumbs without making a mess?
Using a ziptop bag to shake the pickles with the breadcrumbs helps contain the mess and ensures an even coat.
Can I use a deep fryer instead of a pot?
Yes, a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot are both suitable for this recipe.
Should I fry all the pickles at once?
No, it is best to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and lowering the oil temperature.
How should I remove the pickles from the hot oil?
Use a slotted spoon to carefully lift the pickles out of the oil.
How do I remove excess grease after frying?
Place the finished pickles on paper towels immediately after removing them from the oil to drain.
What is the purpose of adding water to the egg?
The water thins the egg slightly to create a more even and manageable egg wash for dipping.
How many pickles are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 10 pickles.
Is this recipe good for parties?
Yes, these are ideal for parties, game days, or as a savory starter for any gathering.
Can I make these pickles gluten-free?
You can attempt a gluten-free version by substituting the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
What should I do if the breading isn't sticking?
Ensure the pickles are blotted very dry before the flour step and that you allow excess egg to drip off before the breadcrumb step.
How much flour is required?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of flour for the initial coating.
How much breadcrumbs should I prepare?
You will need 1 cup of breadcrumbs for the final coating.
What categories does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a snack, appetizer, and Southern cuisine.
Can I use a different seasoning if I don't have Montreal Steak Spice?
Yes, any savory seasoning blend of your choice will work perfectly.
Should the pickles be served hot?
Yes, they are best served warm to maintain their signature crunch.
How many ingredients are in the Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickles recipe?
There are 7 ingredients: oil, pickles, flour, egg, water, breadcrumbs, and seasoning.