Recipe: Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles

Recipe: Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles

Ingredients:

• For the Pickles:
  • 6-8 small cucumbers, sliced into rounds (about 1/4 inch thick)
  • 1 large carrot, sliced into thin rounds or small sticks
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust according to your heat preference)
  • 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 the acidity)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Wash and slice the cucumbers and carrots. If using onions, slice them as well.
   • In a clean jar, layer the cucumber slices, carrots, garlic cloves, and onion slices (if using).
2. Add the Spices:
   • Add the 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. Make the Brine:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the water, vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the salt and sugar.
   • Once the brine comes to a boil, remove it from the heat.
4. Pickling Process:
   • Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables and spices in the jar, making sure everything is fully submerged. You may need to press the vegetables down with a spoon to remove any air bubbles.
   • Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it with a lid.
5. Marinate:
   • Once the jar is sealed, place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pickles to marinate for at least 24 hours before serving for the best flavor. However, they will taste even better after 2-3 days.
6. Serve:
   • These spicy garlic dill pickles can be served as a side with sandwiches, burgers, or as a snack on their own. They can also add a great crunch and flavor to salads.

Storage:

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

Tips:

• Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For more heat, you can add a sliced jalapeño or increase the red pepper flakes.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like radishes, cauliflower, or bell peppers.

These spicy garlic dill pickles are a great way to add a punch of flavor to your dishes. They’re crisp, tangy, and have just the right amount of heat to make them irresistible!