Crusty Dill Spears
Crispy dill pickle spears coated in seasoned cornmeal batter, perfect as a tangy snack or appetizer for parties and gatherings craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 inch oil in a heavy skillet to 400°F.
- In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and garlic powder; stir in milk, pickle juice, and egg.
- Dip pickle spears into the batter to coat thoroughly.
- Fry in small batches for about 2 minutes or until golden brown, turning once.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for a perfect crispy texture. You can experiment with different spices in the batter, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. For extra crunch, add panko breadcrumbs to the coating mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Crusty Dill Spears are fantastic as a stand-alone snack or appetizer. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli. They pair beautifully with a side of Fire House Potatoes for a hearty meal. For a refreshing touch, add a salad with a light vinaigrette.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dill spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Dill Spears contains roughly 135 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry the dill spears shortly after mixing the batter.
What types of pickles work best for this recipe?
While medium dill pickles are traditional, you can experiment with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor or spicy pickles for an added kick. Adjust the seasonings in the batter accordingly to complement the type of pickle you choose.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Baking is an option if you're looking for a healthier alternative, but the texture will differ. Preheat the oven to 425°F, coat the spears with a light spray of oil, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).