Description
These homemade garlic dill pickles are crisp, tangy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect as a snack or as a side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or BBQs. Best of all, they’re easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste.
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Ingredients
- 6–8 small cucumbers (Kirby cucumbers work best)
- 3 cups water
- 1 ½ cups white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons salt (pickling salt or kosher salt)
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds or 3-4 sprigs fresh dill (or both)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 bay leaf (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter pickle)
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into rounds or spears, depending on your preference. For extra crunch, you can also soak the cucumbers in ice water for 1 hour before pickling.
In a small saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Once the brine is boiling, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Place the garlic cloves, dill, peppercorns, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf (if using) into a clean jar or mason jar. Pack the sliced cucumbers tightly into the jar.
Carefully pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar.
Seal the jar with a lid and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the jar in the refrigerator. Allow the pickles to sit for at least 24-48 hours before eating for the best flavor, though they will get more flavorful the longer they sit.
Serve your homemade garlic dill pickles chilled as a snack or a tangy side dish!
Notes
- Choose firm cucumbers – The key to a good pickle is starting with fresh, firm cucumbers. Opt for pickling cucumbers or small Kirby cucumbers for the best texture.
- Customize your spices – Feel free to experiment with different spices like mustard seeds, coriander, or even a little turmeric for unique flavor.
- For extra crispness – Add a few grape leaves or a small piece of dill flower to the jar to help keep the pickles extra crunchy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for the brine)
- Cuisine: American