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
Scale
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.
