Hot Garlic Pickle
Hot garlic pickles offer a spicy, tangy flavor with garlic and hot peppers, perfect for those who enjoy bold, crunchy preserved vegetables with a zesty kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a small piece of garlic, 2 pods of hot pepper, and a small head of dill in clean jars.
- Bring water, salt, and vinegar to a boil.
- Add sliced or small whole cucumbers to the jars.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the cucumbers in the jars.
- Add a pinch of alum to each jar and seal.
- Let stand for 2 weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding mustard seeds or coriander seeds to your jars. If you prefer a milder pickle, reduce the number of hot peppers or use less vinegar. You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different taste. Ensure your jars are sterilized for better preservation. This recipe is also great for using up an abundance of cucumbers during peak season.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hot garlic pickles as a tangy side dish with grilled meats or as part of a charcuterie board. They pair beautifully with sandwiches and burgers, adding a zesty crunch. For a delightful spread, consider serving them with the Bible Honey Cake for dessert or alongside Nonalcoholic Holiday Punch to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor infusion. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator and consume within a month. The pickles can be enjoyed straight from the jar or used in sandwiches and salads. For best results, avoid reheating as these pickles are meant to be enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Garlic Pickle contains roughly 209 calories, with 1g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1799mg per serving (78% 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
How long will these pickles last?
If stored properly in a cool, dark place, these pickles can last for several months unopened. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a month for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or green beans. Just adjust the pickling time accordingly, as different vegetables may require varying durations to achieve the desired crunch.
What can I do if my pickles turn out too salty?
If your pickles are too salty, try soaking them in fresh water for a few hours before consuming. This can help reduce the saltiness. Alternatively, you can adjust the salt levels in future batches to suit your taste preferences.
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).