If you’re craving something crunchy, tangy, and downright addictive, you’ve got to try this Southern Fried Pickles Recipe. It brings together the perfect balance of crispy, golden coating and the zesty bite of pickles that will have your taste buds dancing with every single bite. Whether you’re prepping for a game day snack, a party appetizer, or simply treating yourself to some Southern comfort food, these fried pickles are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and satisfyingly tangy on the inside. Trust me, this recipe is a go-to favorite that’s easy to whip up and guaranteed to make you smile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is all you need to create that perfect Southern Fried Pickles Recipe. Each one plays a key role in delivering amazing flavor, texture, and that irresistible crunch.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the breading and helps create a light, crispy crust that sticks.
- 1/2 cup cornmeal: Adds a delightful gritty crunch and golden hue to the coating.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Acts as the perfect batter base, tenderizing the pickles and helping the coating cling.
- 2 cups pickle chips (dill or bread-and-butter): The star of the show, providing tangy flavor and juicy texture.
- 1 tsp paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the coating.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Packs a punch of savory depth that complements the pickles perfectly.
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut): The medium for crisping the pickles to golden perfection without overpowering their flavor.
How to Make Southern Fried Pickles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pickles
Start by draining your pickle chips really well, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. This drying step is crucial to ensure the coating sticks properly and fries up crispy instead of soggy.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
Create three separate bowls: one filled with the seasoned flour mixture made with flour, paprika, and garlic powder; a second with the buttermilk; and the third with a mix of flour and cornmeal. This assembly line ensures every pickle chip gets that famous crispy shell from the Southern Fried Pickles Recipe.
Step 3: Bread the Pickles
Take each pickle chip and first coat it in the seasoned flour, then dunk it into the buttermilk to soak, and finally dredge it in the flour-cornmeal blend for that extra crunch and texture. Make sure each chip is thoroughly coated and ready for frying.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat your oil in a deep pot to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the pickles in small batches for roughly 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn that perfect golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, so each pickle cooks evenly and stays crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Cool
Remove the fried pickles with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep the southern fried pickles wonderfully crisp and ready to serve.
How to Serve Southern Fried Pickles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika over the fried pickles for a fresh, vibrant touch that adds color and a subtle flavor boost. A few lemon wedges on the side can also brighten the dish with a burst of citrus.
Side Dishes
These fried pickles pair brilliantly with classic Southern side dishes like creamy coleslaw, tangy ranch dressing or a simple dipping sauce made from mayo, hot sauce, and a splash of lemon juice. For something heartier, a plate of crispy fries or baked beans complements this dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, arrange the Southern Fried Pickles Recipe with an assortment of dipping sauces, from a spicy remoulade to a cool blue cheese dip. Alternatively, fancy it up by adding them as crunchy toppings on burgers or alongside chicken sandwiches for an extra tangy crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Southern Fried Pickles Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain as much crispiness as possible, layer them with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
While freezing fried pickles isn’t usually recommended for maintaining the best texture, you can freeze them if necessary. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keep in mind they may lose some crispness once thawed.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy magic, reheat your leftovers in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This method preserves their crunch much better than microwaving, which tends to soften the coating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pickles for this Southern Fried Pickles Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pickles work wonderfully; just make sure they are sliced thin and drained thoroughly for the crispiest results.
What kind of oil is best for frying these pickles?
Peanut or vegetable oil is ideal due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors, which let the pickle and seasoning shine without any overpowering tastes.
Is it okay to use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk mixed with a little lemon juice or vinegar for a quick buttermilk replacement, but traditional buttermilk offers the best tenderness and tang.
How can I make Southern Fried Pickles Recipe spicy?
Add cayenne pepper to your flour mixture or serve with a spicy dipping sauce to turn up the heat and add a zesty kick.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the crispiest texture, you can bake them on a wire rack at 425°F for about 20 minutes to get a healthier but still tasty version.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Fried Pickles Recipe is pure southern comfort food fun in every bite. Crunchy, tangy, and packed with flavor, it’s a snack that never disappoints. I encourage you to try making it at home—it’s surprisingly simple and absolutely worth it. Whether it’s for snacking, entertaining, or adding a twist to your meals, these fried pickles will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Print
Southern Fried Pickles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
A classic Southern snack, these Southern Fried Pickles are crispy on the outside and tangy on the inside. Coated in a seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, then deep-fried to golden perfection, they make an irresistible appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
Main Ingredient
- 2 cups pickle chips (dill or bread-and-butter)
For Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil), as needed
Instructions
- Drain and Dry Pickles: Thoroughly drain the pickle chips and pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier coating when fried.
- Prepare Dredging Stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with the seasoned flour mixture (combine flour, paprika, and garlic powder), a second bowl containing the buttermilk, and a third bowl with a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornmeal for the final coating.
- Coat the Pickles: Dip each pickle chip first into the seasoned flour, then immerse it in the buttermilk, and finally coat it evenly with the flour-cornmeal mixture, ensuring each piece is fully covered for maximum crunch.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or deep-fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), which is the optimal frying temperature to create a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Pickles: Carefully place the coated pickle chips into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and become crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried pickles from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm as a delightful crunchy snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure pickles are well drained and dried to prevent soggy coating.
- Use a deep-frying thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for even frying.
- You can substitute dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles depending on your taste preference.
- Serve with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Peanut oil or vegetable oil are preferred for frying due to their high smoke points.
