Spicy Pickles

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Spicy Pickles offer a bold, tangy flavor with a fiery kick, perfect for those who enjoy a zesty snack or condiment. The combination of garlic, dill pickles, Tabasco sauce, and sugar creates a unique sweet and spicy profile that pairs well with sandwiches, burgers, or as a standalone treat.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 to 2 garlic cloves
  • 46 oz. dill pickles, whole
  • 5 oz. Tabasco sauce
  • 5 lb. sugar

Instructions

  1. Peel and split the garlic cloves.
  2. Empty the juice out of the pickle jar.
  3. Slice the dill pickles into thin slices.
  4. Layer the sliced pickles and garlic cloves into the pickle jar.
  5. Pour the Tabasco sauce over the layered pickles and garlic.
  6. Add the sugar, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
  7. Reassemble the jar and let the mixture sit for at least 24 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier hot sauce instead of Tabasco. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 3 pounds. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before combining to help the flavors meld more effectively.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy pickles are perfect as a zesty snack or as a side with sandwiches, especially tasty with Turkey Buns(Quick!). They also make a great addition to cheese boards or served alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast. Try them with Pork Chops With Savory Apple Glaze for a delightful flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store the spicy pickles in a cool, dark place for up to a month. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within two weeks for the best flavor. The pickles will only get spicier as they sit, so plan to enjoy them within this timeframe.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spicy Pickles contains roughly 1237 calories, with 31g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (65% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2025mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

1237 kcal 62% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.8g 62% DV
Total Fat 56g 72% DV
Carbs 156.7g 57% DV
Fiber 14.9g 53% DV
Sugar 17.4g 35% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2025mg 88% DV
Potassium 1040.3mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 92.9mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 26.1mg 29% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 384.5mg 30% DV
Iron 11.8mg 65% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 these spicy pickles need to sit before they're ready?

It's best to let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. However, for an even spicier and more flavorful experience, consider letting them sit for up to a week before serving.

Can I use other types of pickles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While dill pickles are traditional, you can experiment with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor or even spicy jalapeño slices for an added kick. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the pickles you choose.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic cloves?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can also use jarred minced garlic in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, and you may want to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →