Fried pickles are a delicious appetizer that can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature. However, when heating up previously fried pickles, it’s important to consider a few factors to achieve the best texture and flavor.
How Long to Microwave Fried Pickles
The microwave can be a quick and convenient way to heat up fried pickles. When microwaving, it’s best to heat them in short increments to avoid overcooking.
Microwave fried pickles for 30 seconds at a time, checking after each interval. Depending on the amount you are heating and your microwave wattage, they may only need 30-60 seconds total. You want the pickles to be hot but not dried out.
For best results, arrange the fried pickles in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. This allows them to heat evenly. And be sure not to stack or overlap the pickles, as this can cause uneven cooking.
One other tip for the microwave is to cover the pickles with a paper towel or lid. This helps retain moisture as they heat.
How Long to Bake Fried Pickles
Baking fried pickles in the oven allows you to gently reheat larger batches. It also helps recrisp the batter coating.
To bake fried pickles, preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the pickles in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased foil.
Bake for 5-7 minutes, until heated through and starting to turn golden brown. Watch closely near the end to avoid overbaking. Smaller pickles slices or spears may only need 3-5 minutes.
Baking tends to dry out fried foods, so for best results, lightly mist the pickles with vegetable oil spray before putting them in the oven. You can also place a layer of foil loosely over the top to retain moisture.
How Long to Pan Fry Fried Pickles
You can also reheat fried pickles by pan frying them quickly in a small amount of oil. This essentially “refries” them for a crispy exterior.
Heat about 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the fried pickles to the hot oil in a single layer. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until heated through and crispy.
Work in batches to avoid crowding the pan and steaming the pickles. Blot fried pickles on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Keep in mind that pan frying can make the batter coating extra greasy. It works best for pickles that need some added crunch. Just pat off excess oil afterward.
How Long to Deep Fry Fried Pickles
Deep frying is the best way to recrisp fried pickles, but requires more time and oil.
Heat at least 2-3 inches of frying oil to 350°F in a heavy pot or Dutch oven. Carefully add a batch of fried pickles and fry for 1-2 minutes, until hot and crispy.
Drain the reheated pickles on a paper towel-lined plate before serving. Repeat with remaining batches, allowing the oil to come back up to temperature between each.
When deep frying foods a second time, the coating may darken and take on a more “well-done” appearance. But this method ensures the pickles become evenly crisp again.
How Long Do Fried Pickles Last?
Properly stored, homemade fried pickles can last 3-4 days stored in the refrigerator:
- Store fried pickles in an airtight container to retain crispness.
- Separating layers with parchment or wax paper prevents sticking.
- For longer shelf life, freeze fried pickles up to 3 months.
The quality and texture will decline over time. Reheat only the amount needed within the first 1-2 days for best results.
Tips for the Best Reheated Fried Pickles
Follow these tips for fried pickles that reheat with a hot, crispy coating:
- Use smaller pickle slices or spears, which heat faster and more evenly.
- Allow fried pickles to cool completely before storing for reheating later.
- Reheat at high temp (400°F oven, 350°F fryer) for crispiest results.
- Blot off excess oil after reheating to prevent greasiness.
- Consume within 1-2 days for optimal texture and flavor.
Common Fried Pickle Batter Methods
The batter coating is essential for achieving the distinctive crunch of fried pickles. Here are some popular batter techniques:
Classic Fried Pickle Batter
A simple batter of flour, egg, and milk – dredge pickle slices in flour first, then dip in batter before frying.
Cornmeal Coating
For added crunch, coat pickles in cornmeal or a blend of cornmeal and flour after dredging in batter.
Beer Batter
Carbonation from beer makes for an extra crispy, light batter coating. Self-rising flour works well.
Cajun-Style
Add Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to the flour and batter for a spicy kick.
Panko Coating
For an extra crunchy Japanese breadcrumb-style coating, dredge pickles in panko crumbs instead of flour before batter.
Serving Ideas for Fried Pickles
Beyond eating fried pickles as an appetizer, try these fun serving ideas:
- Top burgers or sandwiches with crunchy fried pickle slices.
- Add fried pickles to a salad for a tasty mix of flavors and textures.
- Make fried pickle nachos by topping tortilla chips with pickles, cheese, and ranch dressing.
- For a protein boost, bread and fry pickle-stuffed chicken breast.
- Skewer fried pickle slices to make handheld pickle-kabobs.
Homemade Fried Pickle Recipes
Frying your own pickles at home lets you control the flavor and crunch factor. Here are some tasty homemade recipes to try:
Classic Buttermilk Fried Pickles
Crisp sliced dill pickles fried in a seasoned flour and buttermilk batter.
Cornmeal Fried Pickles
Whole pickle chips or spears coated in a cornmeal breading with Cajun seasoning.
Ranch Fried Pickles
Pickle coins or sticks fried in a flavorful ranch-seasoned batter.
Air Fryer Fried Pickles
Make lighter fried pickles in the air fryer! Just mist with oil and air fry at 400°F until crispy.
Nutrition Information for Fried Pickles
When enjoyed in moderation, fried pickles can be part of a healthy diet. Here is the nutrition profile for a typical serving of fried pickles (about 5-6 pieces):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 121 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 267mg |
When frying at home, you can control the oil and sodium content. Pickles themselves are low calorie and contain no fat or cholesterol when not fried.
Common Questions
Can you eat expired fried pickles?
It’s not recommended to eat fried pickles past their expiration date. The batter coating may harbor more bacteria when fried or store-bought. Discard fried pickles if they smell, look, or taste off.
Do fried pickles need to be refrigerated?
Yes, fried pickles contain perishable ingredients and should always be refrigerated. Leaving them out too long increases the risk of foodborne illness.
Can you freeze extra fried pickles?
Fried pickles can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely first, then store in airtight freezer bags with wax paper between layers. Reheat directly from frozen.
Can you air fry leftover fried pickles?
Yes, air frying is a great way to reheat fried pickles and make them crispy again. Mist with oil and air fry at 400°F for a few minutes until hot and sizzling.
Conclusion
Heating up fried pickles is quick and easy when you use the right technique. A few seconds in the microwave works for a small portion. For larger batches, turn to the oven, skillet, or deep fryer to recrisp the exterior. With the proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy leftover fried pickles for up to 3-4 days.
