These crispy, golden rings are the ultimate savory appetizer. Perfectly tangy, lightly spiced, and incredibly crunchy, this restaurant-style snack is easy to fry at home and perfect for dipping.
Course Appetizer, Snacks
Cuisine American, Southern
Keyword Fried Banana Peppers
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
Servings 4servings
Calories 250kcal
Author C. Sophie
Equipment
Heavy-bottomed skillet or Cast iron pan
Deep fry thermometer
Wire cooling rack
Slotted spoon or Spider strainer
Paper towels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1jarPickled banana pepper rings (drained and dried)Ensure they are thoroughly dried
1cupFresh banana peppers (optional alternative, sliced into rings)
Breading & Frying
1cupAll-purpose flour
0.5cupCornmeal
1teaspoonSeasoned salt (such as Lawry’s)
0.5cupButtermilk
2cupsHigh smoke point oil (Canola, Vegetable, or Peanut oil)Amount may vary based on pan size
0.5cupRanch dressing (for serving)
Instructions
Drain the pickled banana pepper rings and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres.
Prepare a dredging station with one bowl containing buttermilk and a second bowl or zip-top bag containing a mixture of all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and seasoned salt.
Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan to approximately 375°F.
Dip the dried pepper rings into the buttermilk, then toss in the flour and cornmeal mixture until evenly coated.
Carefully place the peppers in the hot oil, frying in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping and causing sogginess.
Fry until the coating is golden brown and crispy, usually taking 1-2 minutes per side.
Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the peppers and transfer them to a wire cooling rack instead of paper towels to maintain maximum crunch.
Serve immediately while hot with a side of ranch dressing.