"Jennie'S" Half Sour Pickles
Tangy, crisp half-sour pickles with garlic, onion, and dill, ideal for those seeking a flavorful, homemade snack or condiment with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water, vinegar, and pickling salt for 5 to 10 minutes; allow to cool to lukewarm.
- Place pickling cucumbers, crust of rye bread, sliced onion, whole garlic cloves, pickling spice, and dill into a half-gallon jar.
- Pour the cooled brine over the ingredients in the jar, ensuring cucumbers are fully submerged.
- Seal the jar and let it sit at room temperature for several days to develop flavor, then refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use small pickling cucumbers, which are firmer and have better texture. You can substitute the white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. If you prefer a spicier pickle, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for optimum flavor and crispness. This recipe is easy to scale for larger batches.
Serving Suggestions
These half sour pickles are perfect as a crunchy snack or appetizer. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, particularly those made with rye bread. Serve alongside a cheese platter or as a garnish for cocktails. For a delightful meal, enjoy them with the Double Dutch Chocolate Treat for dessert, creating a balance of savory and sweet.
Storage & Reheating
Once pickles are made, store them in the refrigerator where they will keep for several weeks. Ensure the cucumbers remain submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. If you notice any off odors or bubbles, discard the pickles. Enjoy them straight from the jar or use them in salads or sandwiches for added crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Jennie'S" Half Sour Pickles contains roughly 187 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 9g fat.
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 do the pickles need to sit before they're ready?
The pickles should sit at room temperature for about 3 to 5 days to develop their flavor. Taste them after a few days; once they reach your desired taste, transfer them to the refrigerator to slow the fermentation process.
Can I use other spices in the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the pickling spice to your taste. Some popular additions include mustard seeds, coriander seeds, or even a fresh dill sprig. Experimenting with spices allows you to create a unique flavor profile that suits your palate.
What if I can't find pickling cucumbers?
If pickling cucumbers are unavailable, you can use small, firm cucumbers like Kirby or Persian cucumbers. Although they may not have the exact same texture, they will still yield delicious results. Avoid large cucumbers as they tend to be watery.
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).