Mona Newbern'S Dill Pickles
Crisp, tangy dill pickles with garlic and pepper, perfect for snacking or as a condiment, suited for those who enjoy homemade preserved vegetables with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and scald jars.
- Fill each jar half full with cucumbers.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dill seed, 1 pepper pod, and 1 garlic clove to each jar.
- Finish filling jars with cucumbers.
- Prepare brine by mixing water, vinegar, and pickling salt.
- Pour the brine over the cucumbers in each jar and seal.
- Let the jars cure for 3 weeks before opening.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh cucumbers and ensure they are free of blemishes. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of dill seed and garlic. Additionally, for a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or substituting with fresh dill. Remember to use pickling salt instead of regular salt to avoid cloudiness in the brine.
Serving Suggestions
Mona Newbern's Dill Pickles make a fantastic addition to any charcuterie board and pair beautifully with sandwiches or burgers. They can also be served alongside dishes like Busy Day Chili for a delightful contrast in flavors. Consider slicing them thinly to top salads or serve as a zesty side with grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Once sealed, store the pickles in a cool, dark place for at least three weeks before opening. After opening, keep the jars in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They should last several months when stored properly. Always ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent spoilage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mona Newbern'S Dill Pickles contains roughly 518 calories, with 7g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (249% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers are best for their firmness and crunch. If you use larger cucumbers, be sure to slice them to ensure they pickle properly.
How long do these pickles last once opened?
Once opened, these dill pickles should be kept in the refrigerator and can last for several months if stored properly. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I adjust the spice level in the pickles?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier pickle, add more pepper pods or include some red pepper flakes in the jars. Conversely, you can reduce or omit the pepper pods for a milder flavor.
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).