These Pickle Fries are a tasty twist on the classic snack! Made with crunchy pickles and a crispy coating, they are perfect for dipping.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a fun way to eat pickles? I like to pair them with ranch dressing for a cool crunch. Give them a try at your next snack time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Large dill pickles are ideal for this recipe because they hold up well when fried. If you’re in a pinch, consider using smaller pickles or even pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but your fries might be less crispy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes can add fun texture!
All-Purpose Flour: This is used to coat the pickles before dipping. If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Eggs: They create a sticky layer for the breadcrumbs to cling to. If you’re vegan, a mixture of ground flaxseed and water can be a great substitute for the egg wash.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder bring nice flavor. Feel free to mix in other spices like cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a unique flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Pickle Fries?
Achieving that perfect crunch is key for this recipe. Here are some tips:
- Start by patting the pickles dry. Removing excess moisture prevents sogginess.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A deep-fry thermometer can help maintain that 350°F (175°C) mark.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; fry in batches. This helps maintain the oil’s temperature, leading to crispier fries.
- After frying, drain the fries on paper towels to remove excess oil, which can keep them crispy longer.
- If using an air fryer, don’t skip the oil spray; it helps achieve that golden color!
With these tips, your pickle fries will be crunchy and delicious every time!
How to Make Delicious Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickle Fries:
- 16 large dill pickles (whole, not bread and butter style)
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray or neutral oil for shallow frying or air frying
For Dipping:
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch dressing with finely chopped pickles or pickle juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 15 minutes for cooking, depending on your method. If you’re frying in batches, it adds a few extra minutes. Overall, you can have delicious pickle fries ready in about 30-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pickles:
Start by draining the whole dill pickles. Slice each pickle in half lengthwise and then cut each half into smaller sticks to create fry shapes. Pat the pickle sticks dry with paper towels to get rid of extra moisture, ensuring they fry up crispy!
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
Next, gather three shallow bowls. Fill the first bowl with all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your breading setup!
3. Dredge the Pickles:
Now, take each pickle stick and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the pickle stick thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well.
4. Frying Option:
If you’re using a skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering (around 350°F or 175°C). Carefully add the coated pickle fries in batches to the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Air Fryer Option:
For a healthier version, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the coated pickle fries with oil and arrange them in a single layer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your pickle fries are ready, serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or a tangy pickle juice blend. For an extra kick, sprinkle some chopped pickles on top. Enjoy your crunchy, tangy snack!
Can I Use Whole Dill Pickles Instead of Sliced?
Absolutely! In fact, whole dill pickles are preferred because they hold their shape well when fried. Just remember to slice them into fry shapes after draining!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these pickle fries gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of panko. They’ll still be delicious!
What Should I Do if the Breadcrumbs Don’t Stick?
If the breadcrumbs aren’t sticking well, make sure you’re patting the pickle sticks dry first to remove moisture. Additionally, ensure that you’re pressing the breadcrumbs onto the pickles firmly!
How Can I Store Leftover Pickle Fries?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.