Grandma Drake'S Sweet Dill Pickles
Sweet dill pickles with a tangy vinegar and sugar syrup, complemented by fragrant dill and celery seed. Perfect for summer snacking or adding a zing to sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill sterilized jars with sliced cucumbers sliced in sticks.
- Add a piece of dill to each jar.
- Pour boiling syrup made from vinegar, sugar, salt, and celery seed over the cucumbers and dill.
- Seal the jars tightly.
- Process in a water bath for 15 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use pickling cucumbers as they have a firmer texture and better flavor for canning. If you don’t have celery seed, mustard seed can be a great substitute. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet dill pickles are perfect for summer barbecues or as a tangy snack. Serve them alongside sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards. They also pair well with dishes like Marinated Scroodle And Noodle Salad for a refreshing contrast. Try serving them with a Slushy Party Punch for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, refrigerate the pickles and consume within a month. They can be enjoyed straight from the jar or added to sandwiches, burgers, or as a side to dishes like Pan Fries.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Drake'S Sweet Dill Pickles contains roughly 657 calories, with 9g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 607mg per serving (26% 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 other vegetables besides cucumbers?
While cucumbers are traditional, you can experiment with other vegetables like green beans or carrots. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require adjustments in processing time and flavor balance.
How long do the pickles need to sit before they are ready?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit for at least 2-4 weeks before consuming. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and develop fully, giving you the perfect sweet and tangy taste.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to suit your taste, but keep in mind that it may alter the final flavor and preservation qualities. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, consider reducing the sugar by half and adjusting to taste.
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).