Step 1

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your smoky ranch ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2

To prepare the ranch, add all of the ingredients to a medium bowl, and whisk very well until completely combined and smooth. Cover and keep chilled in the fridge until ready to use.

Step 3

Next, gather and prep all of your crispy delicata squash ring ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 4

Place the delicata squash rings into a large bowl, and sprinkle over them the chipotle powder, the smoked paprika, the granulated onion and garlic, plus a couple of good pinches of salt and black pepper, and toss to coat.

Step 5

Set up your dredging station by adding your flour to a large shallow bowl, having your whisked eggs ready, and combining the panko breadcrumbs with the parmesan in another large, shallow bowl.

Step 6

Dip each delicata squash ring lightly into the flour, and tapping off any excess, then dip into the whisked eggs, then gently press into the panko/parmesan mixture. Place the breaded ring onto a large tray or baking sheet to hold, and repeat with the rest of the squash rings until all are coated.

Step 7

Next, add enough peanut or vegetable oil to a large skillet for shallow frying (should cover the bottom and come about a 1/2 inch up the pan), and heat the oil on medium-high until it shimmers.

Step 8

Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium, and add a few rings into the hot oil at a time, frying them on the first side for about 3 ½ minutes, then flipping and frying on the other side for about 2 minutes more, until the rings are golden-brown on both sides.

Step 9

Remove the crispy delicata squash rings and allow them to drain on a wire rack placed over a paper towel or parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the freshly-fried rings with a touch of salt/pepper and/or additional smoked paprika or chipotle powder, if desired. Repeat with the rest of the delicata squash rings, until all are fried.

Step 10

To enjoy, sprinkle with a flourish of chopped cilantro leaves (if desired), and serve with some of the smoky ranch dipping sauce on the side.