Elba’s Deep Fried Dill Pickles

  Posted on May 31, 2011  by Leslie Blythe  No comments

My Aunt Elba

Yesterday, I got to see my Aunt Elba. She is famous in the family for making deep fried dill pickles. I was secretly hoping that she would make them while I was here. Well, guess what? She did! They were delicious! Most restaurants around here have them on the menu. This is not something you could get in LA, except for the LA County Fair! I am all ready to make them for my dubious family upon my return!

PS – not sure why this picture is sideways! Sorry, I am doing this from the road!

Elba’s Deep Fried Dill Pickles

Serves 6

1 (24 oz) jar sliced kosher dill pickles
Vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground red pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup club soda, chilled

Drain pickles, reserving 2 tablespoons pickle juice. Press pickles between layers of paper towels. Set aside.

Pour oil to a depth of 3 inches into a Dutch oven; heat to 370°.

Combine flour and next 3 ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir in club soda and reserved 2 tablespoons pickle juice, stirring just until combined. (Batter will be lumpy.)

Dip pickles into batter, letting excess drip off.

Fry pickles, in batches, 2 1/2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on wire racks over paper towels, and serve immediately.