Description
Make your own spicy garlic dill pickles at home! This easy recipe is perfect for adding crunch and flavor to your meals. Enjoy them as a snack or side dish!
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)
Instructions
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 hours
- Category: Condiment/Snack
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: American
