Description
Crisp and tangy homemade pickles made with fresh cucumbers, garlic, and a flavorful brine. Ideal for snacking, side dishes, or adding a zesty crunch to sandwiches and burgers. Enjoy your delicious homemade pickles!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium cucumbers (preferably pickling cucumbers)
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt (kosher or sea salt works best)
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds or 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Trim off the ends of each cucumber.
- Decide how you want to cut your cucumbers: into rounds, spears, or leave them whole if small enough.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir well to dissolve.
- Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat once boiling.
- Add the smashed garlic, dill seeds (or fresh dill), black peppercorns, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf (if using). Stir to combine.
- Let the brine cool to room temperature.
- Ensure jars are clean and dry. Sterilize if necessary.
- Pack cucumbers tightly into the jars, alternating with garlic and dill.
- Pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged, leaving about half an inch of headspace.
- Add any leftover garlic, dill, or spices on top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth.
- Place lids on jars and screw on metal bands until fingertip-tight.
- Let jars cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Place jars in the refrigerator and let them pickle for at least 24 hours, preferably 3-5 days for best flavor.
- Shake jars gently every day to redistribute the brine.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- These pickles can last in the refrigerator for several weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes