Pickle fries are a fun twist on your usual snack! These crispy, crunchy delights are made by slicing pickles into fry shapes and coating them in a yummy batter before frying or baking.
They’re a perfect mix of tangy and crunchy, making them super addictive! I love to dip mine in ranch or spicy mayo—what a treat! You might want to make extra, just in case! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Large dill pickles are the star here! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use bread and butter pickles instead, to make them sweeter. Just remember, the recipe’s tanginess will change!
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but if you’re gluten-free, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep an eye on the texture—it may vary a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, panko is always my favorite! If you’re out, plain breadcrumbs are a good substitute, but the texture won’t be quite the same. You could even use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Eggs & Milk: If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a plant-based milk.
Dipping Sauce: This is optional, but if you’re short on mayo or sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It adds a nice tang and creaminess.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Texture?
To achieve that great crunch, the breading process is key! Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to pat your pickles dry thoroughly. Excess moisture can make them soggy!
- Don’t skip the three-step breading: flour, egg, then breadcrumbs. This layering helps the crust stick better.
- When frying, keep the oil at the right temperature—350°F (175°C) is ideal. If the oil is too cold, they’ll absorb more oil and become greasy.
Also, avoid crowding the pan while frying. Fry in batches if needed to ensure they cook evenly and get that beautiful golden color!
How to Make Crunchy Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickle Fries:
- 3-4 large dill pickles (whole or jumbo spears)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs or plain breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs (e.g., chives, parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 10-15 minutes for cooking, depending on how many fries you make. Enjoy a total of about 30 minutes from start to delicious snack time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
First, drain the pickles well and pat them dry with paper towels to soak up extra moisture. This will help them crisp up while cooking! Slice each pickle lengthwise into fry-shaped spears, aiming for about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Now it’s time to get everything in place. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined. Finally, put the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This will help you coat the pickle fries easily!
3. Bread the Pickle Fries:
Start dipping! Take each pickle spear and first dip it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture to coat it well. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. Place the breaded pickle fries on a wire rack or tray while you prepare to fry them.
4. Fry the Pickle Fries:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry a few pickle fries at a time—don’t crowd the pan! Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they’re crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels, which will absorb excess oil.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
If you want a tasty dipping sauce, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Feel free to sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top for extra flavor!
6. Serve:
Arrange the freshly fried pickle fries on a basket or plate. Drizzle with dipping sauce if you like, and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pretty touch. Serve them hot and enjoy each crispy, tangy bite with your creamy sauce!
Enjoy your crispy, tasty pickle fries perfect for snacking or sharing! 😋
Can I Use Sweet Pickles instead of Dill Pickles?
Absolutely! Sweet pickles will add a different flavor profile to the dish, making them a bit more tangy and sweet. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will change, so adjust your dipping sauce accordingly!
Can I Bake the Pickle Fries Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded pickle fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through for even baking.
How Do I Store Leftover Pickle Fries?
To store leftover pickle fries, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness!
Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Just check the labels to make sure all ingredients are gluten-free.
