Homemade Spicy Garlic Dill Pickle Recipe – Treat Indulgently

When it comes to the world of condiments, few things can elevate a simple meal like a good pickle. These spicy garlic dill pickles are not just a crunchy side; they are a burst of flavor ready to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or anything needing a zing. 

Savory and vibrant, they can easily add a delightful crunch to your next summer picnic or family BBQ. But first, let’s talk about what these beauties go well with.

Imagine this: your freshly grilled burgers sitting beside a platter of homemade spicy garlic dill pickles. The meshes of heat from the chilies and the refreshing crunch from the fresh cucumbers can make the very act of eating a lavish affair. 

Pair them with charcuterie boards or a simple cheese platter for a delightful contrast.

Not a meat eater? 

No problem! Serve them alongside a vegan wrap or a salad, and watch how they steal the show.

Why This Recipe is Great for You

There’s something special about homemade pickles. They let you control the ingredients. No artificial preservatives or mystery additives. Just pure, fresh flavors that taste like summer. As a registered dietitian, I can appreciate the health benefits here. Cucumbers are hydrating, low in calories, and pack a punch of vitamins. 

By making them spicy with garlic and chilies, you add a metabolism-boosting twist. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also encourages your kitchen savvy. 

The process of pickling is uncomplicated, making it an excellent project for families or anyone looking to add a homemade touch to their meals.

Having made countless batches of these, I can testify to the deliciousness that ensues. Every time I pull out a jar, I’m reminded of picnics in the park or backyard cookouts. 

Let me take you step-by-step through the exciting process of creating your spicy garlic dill pickles.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe, versatile and easy to find:

1 1/2 cups filtered water

1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds

2 pounds cucumbers, regular or small kirby variety

6 cloves garlic, peeled and gently smashed

2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt

2-4 dried red chilies, halved

1 teaspoon whole peppercorns

1/2 cup fresh dill sprigs

How to Make Homemade Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles

Ready to jump in? Here’s a comprehensive guide to making your very own spicy garlic dill pickles.

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

Start by gathering your ingredients. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of filtered water and 1 1/2 cups of apple cider vinegar. Pour in the tablespoon of honey, and sprinkle in your 1/4 teaspoon of mustard seeds. 

Next, add the 2 tablespoons of coarse kosher salt. Over medium heat, stir the mixture until the honey and salt have fully dissolved. You don’t want any chunks floating around in your brine.

Step 2: Smash the Garlic and Slice the Cucumbers

While the brine is heating, peel the 6 cloves of garlic and give them a gentle smash. This helps release their oils and flavors into the brine. For the cucumbers, wash them thoroughly. Then, slice them into spears or rounds—whatever your heart desires. The more surface area exposed, the more intense the flavor will be.

Step 3: Pack the Jars

After your brine mixture has cooled slightly, it’s time to pack your jars. I like to arrange my sliced cucumbers in quart-sized mason jars. 

Place the smashed garlic cloves, dried red chilies (remember, adjust based on your spice tolerance), and 1 teaspoon of whole peppercorns into the jars as you go. Layer them well for a pretty display.

Step 4: Pour in the Brine

Once the jars are packed, pour your cooled brine over the cucumbers until they are fully submerged. 

Leave a little headspace at the top of the jar. For the final touch, pack in your fresh dill sprigs. They’ll float a bit, but that’s completely okay.

Step 5: Seal the Jars

Screw the lids on tightly, and label your jars (I love a good label!) with the date you made them. Refrigerate immediately. 

The pickles will start to develop their flavor within 24 hours, but I recommend letting them sit for about a week for the best and fullest taste.

Recipe Notes

1. Cucumbers: Look for fresh, firm cucumbers with no blemishes. Kirby cucumbers work best for pickling due to their thick skin and crisp texture.
   
2. Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungency that dried garlic just can’t provide. The more bruised the cloves, the more flavor they infuse.
   
3. Honey: This natural sweetener balances the tangy and spicy notes. You can substitute with agave syrup if desired.
   
4. Dill: Fresh dill can be replaced with dill seeds, but the flavor will differ. Using fresh is the best option for that classic taste.
   
5. Storage: These pickles should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 weeks for peak freshness.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some fun variations on the classic spicy garlic dill pickle:

• Spicy Jalapeño Dill Pickles: Add sliced jalapeños to the mix for an extra kick. They bring a different, more rounded spice to the table.
  
• Sweet and Spicy Pickles: Increase the amount of honey for a sweeter flavor profile, or add a teaspoon of sugar for a similar effect.
  
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs. Thyme or bay leaves can lend an interesting depth to your pickles.
  
• Zesty Lemon: Add slices of lemon or lemon zest to brighten up the flavor and add a citrus twist.
  
• Storage: If you want to store them longer, consider pressure canning. But remember, these will lose their crunch over time.
  

Conclusion

Homemade spicy garlic dill pickles are not just a recipe; they’re an experience. 

The crunch of fresh cucumbers, the kick of spices, and the hearty flavor of garlic make these pickles a true delight. With so many ways to enjoy them, they’re sure to add zest to any table.

So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this delicious adventure. Once you taste that satisfying crunch, you won’t look back. 

It’s time to tantalize those taste buds and make your mark in the kitchen!

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