Half Sour Pickles

Prep: 480 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Half Sour Pickles offer a crisp, tangy flavor with aromatic dill and garlic, perfect for snack time or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches. Their refreshing, savory profile makes them ideal for pickle lovers and those seeking homemade, probiotic-rich condiments. A simple, traditional recipe with bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 12 small pickling cucumbers
  • 4 to 5 stems fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup pickling salt
  • 3 to 4 large garlic cloves
  • 1 teaspoon pickling spice
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 1/2 quarts water

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  2. Boil water, pickling salt, and white vinegar in a large pot. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Add pickling spice, garlic cloves, dill stems, and cucumber slices to the hot liquid.
  4. Place a plate over the cucumbers to keep them submerged.
  5. Let sit overnight (about 8 hours) at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  6. Store the pickles in the refrigerator and enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, choose small pickling cucumbers that are firm and fresh. You can substitute fresh dill with dill seeds if necessary, but the flavor will be different. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few red pepper flakes. Ensure the cucumbers are fully submerged in the brine to achieve optimal pickling. This recipe can be made vegan by using non-dairy ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

These half sour pickles make a perfect crunchy snack or a refreshing side dish. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, especially those made with *Lowell Inn Crescent Rolls*. Serve them alongside a charcuterie board or toss them into a salad for added flavor. For a fun variation, try them with homemade burgers at your next barbecue.

Storage & Reheating

Store the half sour pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods to maintain their crunchiness. There's no need to reheat them; they are best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Half Sour Pickles contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

18 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 2.1g 1% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 28mg 1% DV
Potassium 8.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.3mcg
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 4.8mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

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 types of cucumbers for this recipe?

While pickling cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture, you can use other types like Kirby or Persian cucumbers. However, avoid using slicing cucumbers as they tend to be too watery and may result in softer pickles.

How long do these pickles need to sit before they are ready?

The pickles should sit for at least 8 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator for best flavor. However, you can let them sit longer for a stronger taste. Just remember that the longer they sit, the more sour they will become.

Can I add other spices or ingredients to customize my pickles?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like mustard seeds, coriander, or black peppercorns. You can also add slices of jalapeño for a spicy twist or some sugar for a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.

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).

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