Pickles are a favourite condiment for many, adding a delightful tang and crunch to sandwiches, burgers, and salads. But, have you ever tried making your own? Homemade pickles offer a freshness and flavor complexity that store-bought versions often lack. And when you add garlic into the mix, you’re in for a real treat. Here’s a simple, mouth-watering garlic pickle recipe for your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh cucumbers, preferably pickling cucumbers
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and lightly smashed
- 2 cups of distilled white vinegar
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons pickling salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dill seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumbers: Rinse your cucumbers thoroughly and slice off the blossom end, which can cause pickles to become soft. If you prefer, you can slice the cucumbers into rounds or spears, or leave them whole.
- Prepare the jars: Thoroughly wash and rinse your jars and lids. No need to sterilize as the vinegar will take care of any lingering bacteria.
- Prepare the brine: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the vinegar, water, pickling salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
- Pack the jars: Divide the dill seeds, peppercorns, and garlic cloves evenly among your jars. Pack your cucumbers into the jars, ensuring they’re snug but not overly packed. If using, sprinkle in the red chili flakes.
- Pour the brine: Pour the hot brine into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Make sure the cucumbers are fully covered with brine.
- Close the jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, place the lids on top, and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.
- Refrigerate: Let the jars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. The pickles will start to develop flavor within a few days but will be best after about a week.
- Enjoy: Your homemade garlic pickles are ready to enjoy! Remember to keep the pickles refrigerated and use within a month for optimal freshness and flavor.
These homemade garlic pickles are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family gathering. They’re tangy, crunchy, and packed with garlic goodness. Once you see how easy and tasty homemade pickles can be, you might never go back to the store-bought kind. Enjoy your pickle-making adventure!