Crispy Broiled Pickle Bites
These Crispy Broiled Pickle Bites offer a delightful crunch and zesty flavor, making them a fantastic appetizer or snack. This oven-broiled method provides a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions, perfectly aligning with a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 36 ounces dill pickle chips well-drained
For the Coating:
- ¾ cup approx. 84g grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅜ cup approx. 42g almond flour (or almond meal)
- 1 ½ teaspoons taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅜ teaspoon salt
- 3/16 teaspoon black pepper equivalent to one ⅛ teaspoon plus one "pinch", or a generous ⅛ teaspoon
For the Egg Wash:
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pickles: Position an oven rack about 4-6 inches from the broiler element and set the oven to a high broil setting. Thoroughly pat the dill pickle chips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this helps the coating adhere better.
- Create the Egg Wash: In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, and water. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Mix the Dry Coating: In a second mixing bowl, add the grated Parmesan cheese, almond flour, taco seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir with a fork until all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Coat the Pickles: Working with a few pickle chips at a time, first dredge them thoroughly in the dry coating mixture, ensuring all sides are covered. Next, submerge them in the egg wash. Finally, return the egg-washed pickles to the dry coating mixture for a second, generous layer, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Arrange for Broiling: Place the fully coated pickle chips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or aluminum foil coated with non-stick cooking spray. Ensure the pickles are not overcrowded to promote even browning.
- Broil to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 4 to 6 minutes on the first side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Watch them closely as broilers can cook very quickly.
- Flip and Finish: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, flip each pickle bite, and return to the broiler. Cook for an additional 4 to 6 minutes on the second side, again until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Let the Crispy Broiled Pickle Bites cool for a minute or two before serving. They are best enjoyed warm with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce, such as a ranch or spicy aioli.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving of 6 pickle bites, approximate):
- Calories: 224 kcal
- Protein: 9.7g
- Fat: 18.2g
- Total Carbohydrates: 6.4g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.3g
- Total Sugars: 2.8g
- Net Carbohydrates: 4.1g