Sally'S Hot Dills
Sally's Hot Dills are spicy, sweet pickled cucumbers infused with cinnamon, red pepper, and pickling spices, perfect as a tangy snack or condiment for bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the pickles.
- Slice the pickles lengthwise or crosswise.
- In a large glass or Pyrex bowl, layer pickles, a broken cinnamon stick, pickling spice, crushed red pepper, and sugar.
- Repeat the layering two more times to make three layers.
- Pour over one cup of apple cider vinegar.
- Do not stir the mixture.
- Cover with Saran Wrap and leave at room temperature.
- Stir once each day for the next three days.
- Repack the pickles into the same jar, wash and cap with the original lid, and store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce it. You can also substitute the apple cider vinegar with white vinegar if that's what you have on hand. Make sure to use a large enough jar to accommodate the layered ingredients without spilling.
Serving Suggestions
These hot dills make a fantastic snack on their own or can be served alongside sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards. They pair beautifully with Homemade Noodles For Soup, adding a spicy crunch to your meal. Consider serving them as a zesty side dish at barbecues or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store the repacked pickles in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks. Ensure they are completely submerged in the vinegar solution to maintain their flavor and crunch. For optimal taste, allow them to marinate for at least a week before consuming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sally'S Hot Dills contains roughly 405 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular pickles instead of kosher dills?
While kosher dills are recommended for their robust flavor, you can use regular pickles if that's what you have. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may differ slightly, as kosher dills typically have garlic and dill added.
How long do these pickles need to sit before they're ready?
Ideally, let the pickles marinate for at least three days, stirring daily. For the best flavor, waiting a week is even better, as it allows the spices and vinegar to fully infuse the pickles.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
Absolutely! If you prefer your pickles less sweet, reduce the sugar to your taste. You can also opt for alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, but this may slightly alter the final 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).