Spicy Garlic and Dill Pickles : A Homemade Delight

If you’re looking for a tangy, crunchy treat, these homemade spicy garlic dill pickles are the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and easy to make, these pickles are a great accompaniment to sandwiches, burgers, or enjoyed as a snack. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Pickles:

• 6 to 8 small cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 large carrot, sliced thinly or cut into sticks
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
• 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dill seeds or 2-3 sprigs fresh dill
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the Brine:

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups distilled white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the cucumbers and carrots. If using, slice the onion. In a clean jar, layer the cucumber slices, carrots, garlic, and onion.

2. Add the Spices

Add red pepper flakes, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, dill seeds (or fresh dill), and the bay leaf to the jar with the vegetables.

3. Prepare the Brine

In a medium saucepan, combine water, vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Once boiling, remove from heat.

4. Pickling Process

Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables and spices in the jar, ensuring everything is fully submerged. You may need to press the vegetables down with a spoon to eliminate air bubbles. Allow the jar to cool to room temperature before sealing it.

5. Marinate

Once sealed, place the jar in the refrigerator. Let the pickles marinate for at least 24 hours for optimal flavor, although they taste even better after 2-3 days.

6. Serve

These spicy garlic dill pickles are great as a side for sandwiches, burgers, or as a crunchy snack. They also add a delicious zing to salads.

Storage

These pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Ensure they remain submerged in the brine to maintain their quality and safety.

Tips

• Adjust Spice Level: For milder pickles, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or increase the flakes.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like radishes, cauliflower, or bell peppers.

Conclusion

Making your own spicy garlic dill pickles is an easy way to enjoy a homemade snack that’s full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tangy treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the crunch and zest of these delightful pickles in your meals or as a standalone snack!

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