Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Fermentation Time: 3–7 days | Total Time: 3–7 days
Difficulty: Easy | Yield: 1 quart (about 4 servings)

Description

These Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles are crunchy, tangy, and packed with bold flavors. Infused with fresh dill, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, these homemade pickles are perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. Fermenting them naturally enhances their probiotic benefits, making them both delicious and gut-friendly.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4–5 small pickling cucumbers (about 1 lb)

• 1 ½ cups filtered water

• ½ cup white vinegar (5% acidity)

• 1 tbsp kosher salt (or pickling salt)

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, for balance)

Aromatics & Spices

• 3–4 cloves garlic, smashed

• 2–3 sprigs fresh dill (or 1 tbsp dill seeds)

• 1 tsp black peppercorns

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)

• 1 bay leaf (optional, for depth)

Equipment

• 1 quart-sized mason jar with lid

• Small saucepan

• Knife & cutting board

• Measuring cups & spoons

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

1. In a small saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar (if using).

2. Heat over medium until the salt dissolves (do not boil).

3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Cucumbers

1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly and trim off the ends.

2. Cut into spears, slices, or leave whole if small.

Step 3: Layer Flavors in the Jar

1. Add garlic, dill, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf to the jar.

2. Pack cucumbers tightly into the jar.

Step 4: Pour Brine & Seal

1. Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, leaving ½-inch headspace.

2. Seal the jar tightly.

Step 5: Ferment & Store

1. Let sit at room temperature for 3 days for mild flavor or up to 7 days for stronger tang.

2. Burp the jar daily to release gases.

3. After fermenting, refrigerate for up to 1 month.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, ~¼ jar)

Health Benefits

✅ Probiotic-rich – Supports gut health
✅ Low-calorie – Great for snacking
✅ No added preservatives – All-natural ingredients

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Tips for Success

🔹 Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch.
🔹 Avoid table salt (it contains anti-caking agents).
🔹 Adjust spice levels – Add more garlic or peppers for extra kick.

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Serving Suggestions

• 🍔 Burgers & sandwiches

• 🧀 Charcuterie boards

• 🥗 Salads or as a tangy snack

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Enjoy your homemade Spicy Garlic Dill Pickles!

Let them sit longer for more intense flavor, or dig in early for a fresher taste. Either way, they’re a delicious, probiotic-packed treat!