Feasting On Fried Pickles

 For me, one of the joys of travel is uncovering local delicacies. Discovering new and unusual dishes supplies just as much fun as exploring new destinations. So when I visited Greenville, South Carolina for the Euphoria food and music fest, I didn't expect much food discovery since I'm very familiar with Carolina cuisine. From shrimp -n- grits, to Hoppin John and Benne wafers, I thought I'd tried it all.  Then I heard something about fried pickles. They fry everything in the South and I've heard of fried pickles but I never actually tasted one. I was immediately directed to Carolina Ale House to sample this local specialty.

I'm not a huge pickle fan and don't eat a lot of fried food but I couldn't pass up the chance to taste something new. I envisioned whole dill pickles battered like hush puppies but that's not what I was served.

I was presented with a plate of delicate dill pickle chips, fried into crunchy goodness. I planned to try  just a few since I had already been wallowing in Southern food wizardry at Euphoria.  They tasted spicy and sour and salty. I munched on a few and a few more. And a few more. Between a discussion with my friend and Southern food expert Andre, on whether chips or spears were better or whether the correct term for this snack is "frickles,"I polished off the entire plate.  I didn't think I'd like them that much but fried pickles are another food discovery that I'm glad that I experienced. Have you discovered any new food on your travels?