Elouise'S Pickled Okra
Elouise's Pickled Okra offers a tangy, spicy crunch with garlic, hot peppers, and dill seeds—perfect as a snack or condiment for Southern and Southern-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash, drain, and trim the ends of the okra.
- Pack the okra firmly into jars.
- Put garlic buds, hot peppers, and dill seeds in each jar.
- Bring water, salt, and vinegar to a boil.
- Pour the hot brine over the okra, covering completely.
- Adjust the lids on the jars.
- Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose small, fresh okra pods, as they have a firmer texture and better flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, consider reducing the number of hot peppers used. Alternatively, you can substitute dill seed with fresh dill if available, which can add a different flavor profile. Be sure to sterilize your jars properly to ensure safe preservation.
Serving Suggestions
Elouise's Pickled Okra makes a fantastic addition to charcuterie boards or as a zesty snack on its own. They pair beautifully with a variety of dishes, including fried chicken or spicy barbecue. For a unique twist, try them sliced in salads or alongside a refreshing Strawberry Smoothie Fat-Free Spread for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Once pickled, the okra can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. After opening, keep the jars in the refrigerator, where they will maintain their crispness for several weeks. Avoid reheating pickled okra; instead, serve them cold or at room temperature to preserve their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elouise'S Pickled Okra contains roughly 152 calories, with 9g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1595mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use larger okra for this recipe?
While it's possible to use larger okra, smaller pods are preferred for pickling as they maintain a better texture and flavor. Larger okra can become soft and mushy during the pickling process, which may affect the final product.
How long do the pickled okra last?
If properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, pickled okra can last up to one year. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator, and they should stay fresh for about 4-6 weeks.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can modify the amount of hot peppers used to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer peppers or opt for a milder variety. Alternatively, you can omit the peppers altogether for a completely spice-free version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).