Name: Crispy Fried Banana Pepper Rings: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10-12 pieces Banana peppers (sliced into ¼-inch rings and seeds removed); 1 cup Buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk plus 1 tsp vinegar); 1 cup All-purpose flour (to coat the pepper rings); ½ cup Cornmeal (for extra texture); ½ teaspoon Baking powder (to help the batter rise); ½ teaspoon Garlic powder (for flavor); ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika (for added smokiness); ¼ teaspoon Salt (to enhance flavors); ¼ teaspoon Black pepper (for warmth and spice); Oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil heated to 350°F (175°C))

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Crispy Fried Banana Pepper rings are the ultimate snack that brings an explosion of flavor to your palate. With their crunchy exterior and tender inside, these fried delights transform a simple banana pepper into a mouthwatering treat. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy spicy snacks with a hint of smokiness, making it a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

There are countless reasons to adore these crispy fried banana peppers. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Secondly, they are gluten-free and vegetarian, making them suitable for a wide range of diets. Thirdly, the combination of spices, including garlic powder and smoked paprika, ensures a flavor-packed experience. You can enjoy them as a crunchy fried banana pepper side dish or as a standalone snack. The versatility of this recipe allows you to create variations, including spicy fried banana peppers or crispy banana pepper fritters. Lastly, serving them hot with your favorite dipping sauce elevates the overall taste experience, making them a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients for Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

Gather these items:

10-12 pieces Banana peppers (sliced into ¼-inch rings and seeds removed)
1 cup Buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk plus 1 tsp vinegar)
1 cup All-purpose flour (to coat the pepper rings)
½ cup Cornmeal (for extra texture)
½ teaspoon Baking powder (to help the batter rise)
½ teaspoon Garlic powder (for flavor)
½ teaspoon Smoked paprika (for added smokiness)
¼ teaspoon Salt (to enhance flavors)
¼ teaspoon Black pepper (for warmth and spice)
Oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil heated to 350°F (175°C))

How to Make Crispy Fried Banana Pepper Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare your banana peppers by slicing them into ¼-inch rings and removing the seeds.
Step 2: Soak the rings in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Mix together your dry ingredients in a separate bowl: flour, cornmeal, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Dredge the soaked pepper rings in the flour mixture until well coated.
Step 6: Fry the coated rings in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 7: Transfer the fried rings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Serve the crispy fried banana pepper rings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh banana peppers for the best flavor and texture.
Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to get that perfect crunch.
For a unique twist, try adding some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

These crispy banana pepper appetizers are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further. Serve them with a zesty ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also pair wonderfully with a spicy aioli or salsa for a burst of flavor. For a fun twist, consider using them as a topping on nachos or in tacos, enhancing the overall experience.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until crispy again. This is a great way to enjoy your fried banana pepper snacks another day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Banana Pepper

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Fried Banana Pepper?

The secret lies in the batter and the frying technique. Make sure to coat the banana pepper rings well, and fry them in hot oil to achieve the perfect crunch. Using a combination of flour and cornmeal gives them that desired texture.

Can I make Crispy Fried Banana Pepper ahead of time?

While these crunchy fried banana peppers are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just fry them just before serving for the best results!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Fried Banana Pepper?

Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to avoid sogginess. Also, do not overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Variations of Crispy Fried Banana Pepper You Can Try

Explore these tasty variations:

Spicy Fried Banana Peppers: Add more cayenne or chili powder to the batter.
Crispy Banana Pepper Fritters: Mix in some corn or cheese to the batter for added flavor.
Homemade Crispy Fried Banana Peppers: Use different dipping sauces to create a unique tasting experience.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making creamy potato soup as a comforting side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our gingerbread cookies recipe!

Crispy Fried Banana Pepper Rings: A Flavorful Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy these crispy fried banana pepper rings for a delectable snack packed with flavor.

Instructions

Prepare your banana peppers by slicing them into ¼-inch rings and removing the seeds.
Soak the rings in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes.
Mix together your dry ingredients in a separate bowl: flour, cornmeal, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Dredge the soaked pepper rings in the flour mixture until well coated.
Fry the coated rings in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the fried rings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve the crispy fried banana pepper rings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.