Deep-fried pickles are a delicious and popular appetizer, but they can be quite unhealthy due to the high amount of oil used in the frying process. However, with the invention of air fryers, you can now enjoy crispy fried pickles without all the excess oil! In this article, we will guide you through a delicious breadcrumb-free recipe for making crispy fried pickles in an air fryer.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
The first step in making crispy fried pickles in an air fryer is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Pickle spears or slices
– Flour
– Paprika
– Garlic powder
– Salt
– Egg
– Panko breadcrumbs (optional if going breadcrumb-free)
– Cooking spray
2. Preparing the Pickles
Before you start coating the pickles, it’s essential to dry them thoroughly. This step is crucial as it helps the coating adhere better to the pickles, resulting in a crispier texture. Use a paper towel to pat the pickles dry and remove any excess moisture.
3. Set Up Your Coating Station
Prepare three separate bowls for your coating station. In the first bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. This mixture will act as the seasoning for the pickles. In the second bowl, whisk the egg until it’s well-beaten. Finally, if you opt to use breadcrumbs, place them in the third bowl. However, if you’re going breadcrumb-free for a healthier version, skip this step.
4. Coating the Pickles
Now it’s time to coat the pickles! Take one pickle spear or slice and dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the pickle into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. If you’re using breadcrumbs, transfer the pickle to the third bowl and coat it thoroughly. Repeat this process with the remaining pickles.
5. Preparing the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a couple of minutes. It’s crucial to preheat the air fryer to ensure a crispy exterior and evenly cooked pickles. While the air fryer is preheating, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray. This step prevents the pickles from sticking to the basket during cooking and makes cleanup easier.
6. Cooking the Pickles
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the coated pickles in a single layer on the prepared basket. It’s essential not to overcrowd the basket; otherwise, the pickles may not cook evenly. If necessary, cook the pickles in multiple batches.
7. Air Frying Process
Set the timer for around 10 minutes and let the pickles cook in the air fryer. However, it’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer. Therefore, it’s always advisable to keep a close eye on the pickles during the cooking process.
8. Flipping the Pickles
When the timer goes off, carefully flip the pickle spears or slices using a pair of tongs. Flipping them ensures that they cook evenly and become crispy on both sides. Set the timer for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Once the pickles are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Serve them immediately while they’re still piping hot. You can enjoy them as is or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, spicy mayo, or even ketchup.
Conclusion
Making crispy fried pickles in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, allowing you to indulge in this delicious appetizer guilt-free. By following the simple breadcrumb-free recipe outlined above, you can achieve a tantalizing crunch without the need for excessive oil. So, why not whip up a batch of crispy air-fried pickles for your next gathering or as a tasty snack for yourself?