Description
This Ultimate Dill Pickle recipe delivers bold, crunchy pickles with a perfect balance of tangy, garlicky, and slightly spicy flavors. Using fresh dill, garlic, and a blend of spices, these refrigerator pickles are easy to prepare and taste best after sitting for 1-2 days. Ideal for a quick homemade pickle fix without the need for canning.
Ingredients
Scale
Pickles
- 8–10 small pickling cucumbers (about 4 inches each)
Brine
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for balance)
Spices & Herbs
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 4–6 fresh dill sprigs
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly to remove any dirt. Trim off the blossom ends of each cucumber to help maintain their crispness during pickling.
- Make the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine water, white vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar if using. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring to dissolve the salt completely. Once boiling, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Layer Ingredients in Jars: Sterilize 4 pint-sized jars. In each jar, layer the cucumbers along with smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh dill sprigs evenly.
- Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the warm brine over the cucumbers and spices in each jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jars tightly with lids and place them in the refrigerator. Allow the pickles to develop flavor for at least 24 to 48 hours before eating.
- Storage: The pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months, maintaining their bold crunchy flavor throughout.
Notes
- Trimming the blossom ends of cucumbers helps in keeping the pickles crispy.
- The sugar in the brine is optional and can be omitted or adjusted based on taste preferences.
- Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick but can be left out for milder pickles.
- Ensure jars are sterilized to extend shelf life and safety.
- For best flavor, allow pickles to rest at least 24-48 hours before consuming.
- Keep pickles refrigerated and consume within 2 months for optimal freshness.
