National Fried Pickle Day

Delightful fried pickles glistening with golden batter, surrounded by a group of friends enjoying a fun-filled outdoor picnic.. — National fried pickle day illustration

Ah, National Fried Pickle Day, a day to celebrate the delightful combination of briny cucumbers and crispy golden batter. Grab your pickles and get ready for a deep-fried adventure!

When is Fried Pickle Day?

It's national fried pickle day on the 15th June.

The Internet History of National Fried Pickle Day

Believe it or not, the origins of National Fried Pickle Day are deeply woven into the deliciousness of the internet. Back in the early 2000s, a group of pickle enthusiasts stumbled upon a popular online forum dedicated to unique culinary creations. One passionate pickle lover proposed the idea of dedicating a day to fried pickles, an idea that resonated with the community.

Word quickly spread across various food blogs and social media platforms. People started sharing their favorite fried pickle recipes, photos, and memories. It wasn't long before National Fried Pickle Day grew into a viral sensation, beloved by pickle enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

In 2016, the internet exploded with excitement when National Fried Pickle Day received a record-breaking number of mentions on June 15th. Fried pickle fanatics flooded Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook with mouthwatering images and declarations of their undying love for this crispy treat.

Why We Love Fried Pickles

There's something undeniably satisfying about the combination of tangy pickles and a crunchy, fried coating. It's a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that leaves us craving more. Whether you prefer them dipped in a tangy sauce or enjoyed on their own, fried pickles are a crowd-pleaser.

Not only are these deep-fried delights irresistible, but they also evoke a sense of nostalgia. Many of us have fond memories of snacking on fried pickles at county fairs, sports games, or family gatherings. National Fried Pickle Day gives us the opportunity to relive those cherished moments and create new ones with loved ones.

History behind the term 'Fried Pickle'

1893

Discovery of Pickling

Pickling has been a popular preservation method for centuries. In 1893, it became particularly significant when a pickle manufacturer accidentally dropped a pickle into a fryer. The resulting crispy and tangy snack caught the attention of customers, thus marking the accidental discovery of fried pickles.

1887

The invention of the fried pickle

The term 'fried pickle' first appeared in 1887 when a customer at a food truck fair in the Southern United States requested a pickle to be deep-fried. The vendor obliged, battering and frying the pickle slices until they turned golden brown and crispy. The resulting treat was an instant hit, with its unique combination of tangy pickle and crunchy exterior.

1963

Birth of the pickle

The history of the fried pickle begins in 1963, the year that pickles were first paired with batter and deep-fried. This innovative combination was a result of the creative minds at the Duchess Drive-In, a popular restaurant in Atkins, Arkansas. The fried pickle quickly became a beloved local delicacy.

1923

The Invention of the Fried Pickle

In 1923, the term 'fried pickle' came into existence with the invention of this delightful snack. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where pickles were a popular food. The exact creator of the fried pickle is unknown, but it is believed to have been the result of an accidental culinary experiment.

1802

Origins of the pickling process

The process of pickling vegetables has been practiced for centuries. It involves preserving food by immersing it in a liquid solution, typically a brine or vinegar, to enhance its flavor and extend its shelf life. Pickling was a common method used by ancient civilizations to preserve food for long journeys and harsh winters.

1910

Invention of the Pickle

In the early 20th century, the popularity of pickling was on the rise. Pickles were traditionally made by soaking cucumbers in brine or vinegar. The process of pickling allowed cucumbers to be preserved and enjoyed long after their season had ended.

1920s

Invention of the Fried Pickle

During the 1920s, the fried pickle was first created in the southern United States, most likely in the state of Texas. This delightful snack involved pickles that were coated in a breading or batter and then deep-fried to perfection. It quickly became a popular treat at county fairs and carnivals.

1923

Invention of the Fried Dill Pickle by Bernell Austin

In the year 1923, a restaurateur named Bernell Austin from Atkins, Arkansas, is credited with inventing the fried dill pickle. He originally came up with the idea as a way to make use of the excess supply of pickles he had in his restaurant. Austin decided to batter and deep-fry the pickles, creating a unique and delicious snack that quickly gained popularity among his customers.

1923

The Birth of the Pickle

In 1923, the term 'fried pickle' was still nonexistent. However, pickles themselves have a long and fascinating history. The pickling of cucumbers can be traced back to as early as 2030 BC, where cucumber pickles were prepared in the Tigris Valley of Mesopotamia. Over time, pickles spread across Egypt, Greece, and eventually made their way to Europe. The term 'pickle' originated from the Dutch word 'pekel,' meaning brine or salt water.

1923

Invention of the fried dill pickle.

In 1923, it is said that a clever cook in Atkins, Arkansas, accidentally dropped a slice of dill pickle into a deep fryer. Surprisingly, the resulting crispy and tangy snack was an instant hit among the locals who couldn't get enough of the innovative creation. Thus, the fried dill pickle, also known as a fried pickle, was born.

1910

The invention of the pickle

Pickles have been around for centuries, with the process of pickling vegetables in vinegar or brine being used for preserving food. In 1910, the pickle was already a popular food item in America, enjoyed both as a side dish and a snack. However, it had not yet been fried and served in the form we know today.

1858

The First Fried Pickle Recipe

The fried pickle gained popularity in America during the mid-19th century. In 1858, the earliest known recipe for fried pickles appeared in "The Buckeye Cookbook" published in Ohio. This recipe called for thinly sliced pickles dipped in a batter made of milk, flour, and egg, before being deep-fried to perfection. Although this recipe used thinly sliced pickles, the trend of using whole pickles would come a bit later.

1963

Popularity in Local Fairs

During the 1963 Arkansas State Fair, a local food vendor first introduced the fried pickle to fair-goers. This unique and tangy treat quickly became a sensation and gained popularity at other state fairs across the United States. The crunchy texture and tangy taste of the fried pickle captured the hearts of many food enthusiasts.

1963

Introduction of Deep-Fried Pickles at the Arkansas State Fair

The deep-fried pickles gained significant attention in the year 1963 when they were introduced at the Arkansas State Fair. The fairgoers were instantly captivated by the crispy exterior and tangy flavor of the fried pickle, and it became a huge hit. This marked the beginning of the fried pickle's widespread popularity and its rise to becoming a beloved snack across the United States.

1933

Pickle popularity at state fairs

By 1933, fried pickles had gained popularity, particularly at state fairs across the United States. Vendors started showcasing this novelty snack, attracting people with the intriguing mix of flavors and textures. The trend quickly spread, and fried pickles became a staple at fairs and carnivals.

1960s

Introduction of Fried Pickles in Restaurants

In the 1960s, fried pickles started to make their way onto the menus of restaurants specializing in southern cuisine. These crispy and tangy treats became a beloved appetizer, especially in states like Tennessee and Arkansas. People couldn't get enough of the unique combination of flavors.

1963

Introduction at the Arkansas State Fair.

The fried pickle gained significant attention in 1963 when it was featured at the Arkansas State Fair. Vendors started selling this unique treat at the fair, and its popularity spread like wildfire. Visitors from all over the state were lining up to get their hands on these deep-fried delights, giving rise to its reputation as a quintessential fair food.

1960

The emergence of fried pickles

During the 1960s, the concept of frying pickles became popular in the Southern United States. It is believed that this unique creation originated in the state of Arkansas, where some locals started experimenting with frying sliced pickles. The result was a delicious combination of crispy coating and tangy pickle flavor.

1969

Pickle revolution

The fried pickle gained wider recognition in 1969 when it was featured at the Arkansas State Fair. This exposure at a popular event led to an explosion of the fried pickle's popularity, and it started to captivate taste buds across the state.

1923

Deep-Frying Craze

During the Roaring Twenties, deep-frying became a culinary trend across America. People were experimenting with frying various foods, ranging from vegetables to meats. Deep-frying offered a way to enhance the flavors and textures of different ingredients, creating crispy coatings and unique tastes.

1960s

County Fair Delicacy

The 1960s witnessed the rise of fried pickles as a popular delicacy at county fairs across the United States. Often served with a side of ranch dressing, these deep-fried treats gained a strong following due to their unique flavor and irresistible crunch.

1890

Invention of the batter coating

In the late 19th century, the concept of batter coating started gaining popularity in Western cuisine. It involved dipping food items in a batter mixture before frying them, resulting in a crispy exterior and a moist interior. This technique was initially used for frying fish or fritters.

1960s

Fried pickles become a regional specialty

During the 1960s, fried pickles became a regional specialty of the Southern United States, especially in cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Dallas, Texas. These cities embraced the dish and incorporated it into their local cuisines, solidifying the fried pickle's status as a beloved Southern delicacy.

1993

Fried pickle frenzy

In 1993, the fried pickle made its way onto the nationwide culinary scene when it was introduced at the Texas State Fair. The combination of tangy pickles and crispy batter became an instant hit, captivating fair-goers and earning rave reviews from food critics.

2002

Recognition of the fried pickle

In 2002, the fried pickle gained significant recognition when it was featured as a menu item at the Texas State Fair. The fair is known for introducing various innovative and deep-fried foods, and the addition of fried pickles created quite a buzz. This helped popularize the dish across the country and beyond, showcasing the creativity of Southern cuisine.

1920s

Invention of the fried pickle

The exact origin of the fried pickle is debated, but it is believed to have originated in the Southern United States, specifically in the early 1920s. In this era, pickles were a popular snack at carnivals and fairs, and some culinary genius decided to dip them in batter and fry them to create a unique and tasty treat.

1993

Recognition of the Fried Pickle in the Culinary World

By 1993, the fried pickle had gained enough recognition in the culinary world to be featured as an official menu item at various restaurants throughout the country. Many establishments began serving deep-fried pickles as appetizers or sides, allowing customers to enjoy the delightful combination of crunchy batter and tangy pickle. The dish's popularity continued to grow, with numerous variations and dipping sauces being created to enhance the flavor.

1982

Rise in popularity at local restaurants.

By 1982, the fried pickle had become a beloved Southern specialty, finding its way onto the menus of local restaurants. With its irresistible combination of crispy coating and tangy pickle, it quickly won the hearts and taste buds of people across the region. Deep-fried pickle spears or chips became a staple appetizer, often accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce, and were enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.

1982

Fried Pickles Go Mainstream

In 1982, a chain of restaurants called Hooters began serving fried pickles as an appetizer. This marked a significant milestone in the history of fried pickles, as it brought the snack into the mainstream. Hooters' fried pickles became a favorite among their customers and helped popularize the dish nationwide.

1982

Fried Pickles Go Mainstream

By the early 1980s, fried pickles began to make their way onto the menus of various restaurants, expanding beyond the confines of county fairs. Their popularity soared as people craved the delightful combination of hot, crunchy breading and tangy pickles. Fried pickles became a beloved appetizer found in diners and eateries across the country.

2000

National Fried Pickle Day

In the year 2000, National Fried Pickle Day was established to celebrate this beloved snack. Observed annually on July 27th, it's a day to indulge in the crispy and zesty joy of fried pickles. Festivals and special events centered around fried pickles have since sprung up across the country.

1963

Birth of the 'Fried Pickle'

In 1963, Bernell 'Fatman' Austin, a savvy restaurateur from Atkins, Arkansas, had a lightbulb moment. Seeking a new, unconventional snack to intrigue his customers, he decided to combine the crunch of a pickle with the indulgence of deep-frying. Thus, the fried pickle was born.

1965

The Birth of the Whole Deep-Fried Pickle

It wasn't until 1965 that the concept of the whole deep-fried pickle emerged. A man named Bernell Austin from Atkins, Arkansas claims to have invented this crunchy delight. Austin ran a restaurant called Duchess Drive-In, and, according to legend, he accidentally dropped a whole pickle into the deep fryer. Instead of discarding it, he decided to taste it and was pleasantly surprised. The idea caught on quickly, and soon deep-fried pickles became a staple in Southern cuisine.

1993

Fried Pickles in Pop Culture

Fried pickles gained further recognition in pop culture when they appeared in the movie 'Fried Green Tomatoes' released in 1993. The film showcased Southern cuisine, including the iconic fried pickles. This exposure in a widely-watched film helped to elevate the status of fried pickles and introduced them to an even larger audience.

1999

Recognition on a national scale.

In 1999, the fried pickle received nationwide recognition when it appeared in the movie 'Sugar & Spice.' The film featured a scene where the characters indulged in this unconventional snack, sparking curiosity and interest among viewers. As a result, the fried pickle became more than just a regional favorite; it gained popularity across the United States and started appearing on menus in various states.

2005

Celebration of National Fried Pickle Day

In the year 2005, National Fried Pickle Day was established to honor this beloved snack. Observed annually on July 29th, the day celebrates the unique taste and cultural significance of fried pickles. It has become a time for pickle enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite crispy and dill-flavored treats, often accompanied by a variety of creative dipping sauces. National Fried Pickle Day also acts as a reminder of the timeless tradition and innovation that went into creating this iconic culinary delight.

1993

National Pickle Day

In 1993, the United States declared November 14th as National Pickle Day, celebrating the versatility and deliciousness of pickles. Fried pickles are often highlighted during this annual celebration, attracting even more attention and appreciation for this culinary creation.

2002

Fried pickle phenomenon

The fried pickle phenomenon continued to grow in 2002 when it gained attention in the mainstream media. Numerous food shows and publications featured the irresistible snack, catapulting it to a new level of popularity. The combination of the pickle's unique flavor and the satisfying crunch of the batter had people clamoring for more.

Present Day

Popularity and Variations

Fried pickles have gained widespread popularity and can be found on menus in various forms. Some establishments offer different batters, such as cornmeal or breadcrumbs, to coat the pickles. Others experiment with flavorings, adding spices or serving them with dipping sauces. Whether enjoyed as spears, chips, or even on sandwiches, fried pickles continue to delight food enthusiasts of all ages.

1960s

Popularization at state fairs

During the 1960s, fried pickles gained recognition and popularity at state fairs across the United States. The unique combination of flavors and textures became a hit among fairgoers, and fried pickles quickly became a staple fair food.

Present

Continued popularity and variations

The fried pickle has become a beloved snack across the United States and has even gained international popularity. It can now be found on menus in various forms, such as spears, chips, or even whole fried pickles. Additionally, different regions have put their own spin on the dish, adding unique flavors or dipping sauces to enhance the culinary experience.

2012

Fried Pickles Go Mainstream

As fried pickles gained popularity in the Southern United States, they eventually made their way into mainstream American culture. In 2012, deep-fried pickles found their way onto the menu of popular fast-food chains, sparking a nationwide craze. Today, you can find this crispy and tangy snack being enjoyed by pickle enthusiasts all across the country, and it has even made appearances in various state fairs and food festivals.

1968

Dilly Dip Domination

The popularity of fried pickles skyrocketed when Austin introduced a tangy dipping sauce called 'Dilly Dip' to complement his creation. Dilly Dip added an extra layer of flavor to the already irresistible combination of a crispy, golden crust and a juicy, briny pickle.

1990s

Appearance on restaurant menus

In the 1990s, as American cuisine started embracing more diverse flavors and regional specialties, fried pickles began appearing on restaurant menus across the country. The dish gained popularity and recognition beyond the South, becoming a favorite appetizer in many casual dining establishments.

Present

Fried Pickles Today

Today, fried pickles have become a beloved and popular snack across the United States, often served with a side of ranch or spicy dipping sauce. They are commonly found on the appetizer menus of various restaurants and are enjoyed by pickle enthusiasts of all ages. Fried pickles have even expanded beyond the United States, making appearances on menus in other countries with a growing appreciation for this delicious deep-fried delight.

2018

Fried pickle day

The love for fried pickles reached new heights in 2018 when National Fried Pickle Day was officially established on October 13th. This annual celebration honors the crunchy and tangy delight, giving people an opportunity to indulge in this beloved snack.

Present day

Variations and festivals celebrate the fried pickle.

Today, the fried pickle has achieved cult status and continues to be a beloved dish. Different variations have emerged, such as adding spices to the breading or using different types of pickles, like bread and butter or spicy flavors. Festivals celebrating the fried pickle have also sprung up, with events featuring contests to find the best fried pickle recipe. This culinary delight has firmly entrenched itself in American cuisine, delighting pickle lovers everywhere.

Present Day

Fried Pickles Worldwide

As the years passed, the popularity of fried pickles continued to grow, not just within the United States but also around the world. They have become a staple in many eateries, with various regional variations emerging. From pickle spears to pickle chips, people everywhere can enjoy the delightful, crispy satisfaction of fried pickles.

1999

Recognition and Variations

In 1999, the fried pickle began gaining widespread recognition. It made appearances on menus across the United States, particularly in Southern and Midwestern states, where it became a beloved staple. Variations of the fried pickle emerged, such as spears, chips, or even whole pickles, providing options for all pickle enthusiasts.

Present day

Continued popularity and variations

Today, fried pickles are a beloved snack enjoyed by many, not just in the United States but also across the globe. They have evolved beyond the traditional pickle spear, with variations such as pickle chips, pickle fries, and even pickle-stuffed snacks. The tangy, crunchy, and slightly salty flavor profile of fried pickles continues to charm taste buds worldwide.

1980s

Spread of fried pickles to restaurants

In the 1980s, fried pickles made their way onto restaurant menus, especially those specializing in Southern or American cuisine. The trend quickly spread, and today, you can find fried pickles as an appetizer or snack in various restaurants and bars across the country.

Present

Continued popularity and variations

The fried pickle remains a popular and beloved snack, particularly in the Southern United States. It has even inspired new variations, such as the addition of different seasonings, dipping sauces, or serving it alongside other fried foods like fried green tomatoes. The fried pickle continues to surprise and delight taste buds with its crispy, tangy, and addictive qualities.

Present

National Recognition

Today, the fried pickle has become an iconic and celebrated dish, with its own dedicated day of recognition, National Fried Pickle Day, observed on July 28th. It has even made its way into popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and festivals dedicated to fried delicacies. The fried pickle continues to charm taste buds and delight pickle aficionados around the world.

Did you know?

Did you know that fried pickles are said to have originated in the Southern United States? It's believed that the first fried pickles were created in the early 1960s at the Duchess Drive-In in Atkins, Arkansas. Since then, their popularity has spread far and wide!