Hey there, pickle pals! It’s time to spin the classics with a bit of pizzazz in our pickle world. Today’s star? Pickled cucumbers and dill!
This isn’t just another pickle recipe; it’s a revival of an age-old love affair between cucumbers and dill. We’re keeping the charm but adding a twist of excitement.
Prepare yourself for a crunchy, herby delight that’s sure to make your taste buds dance the tango!
Pickled Cucumbers and Dill Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- dill A few sprigs of fresh dill
- 6 ounces vinegar- White vinegar or vinegar of choice.
- 4 ounces water
- 1 tablespoon sea salt or kosher salt- Check the label to ensure your sea salt or kosher salt is pure, without anti-caking agents or iodine, as they can impact the flavor and look of your vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon sugar- For a low-carb or keto option try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- Optional- 2 garlic cloves cut lengthwise
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber to your desired thickness.
- Place the cucumber slices and a few sprigs of fresh dill in a sterilized jar.
- In a pot, mix water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pour the brine over the cucumbers and dill, ensuring they're fully submerged.
- Allow the jar to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. Then seal the jar and refrigerate it. For the best flavor, let the cucumber pickle for at least 24 hours. Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
There Is so Much You Can Do with Pickled Cucumbers and Dill!
Pickled cucumbers with dill are far more than just a classic favorite – they’re incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
I love finding new and exciting ways to incorporate them into meals. Let me share with you some of my favorite and most creative uses for these tangy delights.
Charcuterie Board Champion: Their tangy presence adds a delightful contrast on a cheese platter, complementing both soft and hard cheeses.
Salad Superstar: Chop them for a refreshing twist in potato or pasta salads, or add them to a Greek salad for an extra zesty touch.
Burger’s Best Buddy: Elevate your burgers, whether beef, chicken, or veggie, with their zesty slices adding a refreshing crunch.
Refreshing Snack: Grab them straight from the jar for a quick, tasty treat that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Brunch Bonanza: Incorporate them into your brunch spread, pairing perfectly with eggs Benedict, smoked salmon, or as a side to frittatas.
Canapé Creativity: Use them on crackers or small toasts with cream cheese, adding smoked fish or a sprig of dill for elegant appetizers.
BBQ Sidekick: Their refreshing bite balances the smokiness of grilled meats, making them an ideal BBQ companion.
Wrap Wonder: Add a layer of these pickles in your wraps for a juicy crunch, especially delicious with chicken or falafel wraps.
Fish Dish Enhancement: Serve alongside grilled or baked fish for a complementary herby and tangy flavor.
Rice Bowl Zest: Stir into rice or grain bowls for a pop of flavor, especially good with Mediterranean or Middle Eastern dishes.
Hearty Stews and Casseroles: Add them towards the end of cooking for a bright, tangy contrast in rich, savory stews.
Tea Time Treat: Place a slice on cucumber sandwiches for a traditional English tea with a flavorful twist.
Love a Spicy Kick? Our spicy pickled cucumbers are not for the faint of heart. Dare to try the heat that elevates every bite!
Diving Deeper into Spice Choices for Your Recipe
In my kitchen, pickling isn’t just a process; it’s a playground for flavors.
Dill might be the star of the show, but here are some additional spices that I love to use to bring new dimensions to the classic pickled cucumbers:
- Mustard Seeds: These little seeds burst with a tangy, peppery flavor that adds a subtle complexity to the cucumbers.
- Garlic Cloves: A few cloves bring a rich, aromatic depth, which is essential for creating that savory pickle flavor.
- Coriander Seeds: Their light citrusy hints pair wonderfully with dill and add a refreshing note to the pickles.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, these flakes add a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Bay Leaves: They infuse the brine with a gentle, herbal aroma, complementing the cucumbers and dill.
- Black Peppercorns: A classic in pickling, they provide a spicy warmth that’s just right.
- Fennel Seeds: For an anise-like sweetness that can give a surprising twist to your pickles.
- Lemon Peel: Thin strips of lemon peel can add a zesty, citrus flavor that beautifully complements the dill.
- Allspice: A few allspice berries can bring a warm, aromatic sweetness, adding a layer of complexity.
- Celery Seeds: Their earthy, slightly bitter taste can provide a nice contrast to the freshness of the cucumbers.
- Juniper Berries: These offer a piney, slightly fruity note that can create a unique flavor profile in your pickles.
- Horseradish: Grated fresh or dried, it gives a sharp, pungent kick that can really liven up your cucumbers.
Embracing the craft of pickling is all about adding your personal touch. Mixing various spices and aromatics can transform each batch into a reflection of your unique taste.
Remember, the vinegar you select plays a crucial role in flavoring your pickles, each type bringing a distinct character to the table.
For an in-depth exploration of different vinegars and their flavor nuances, be sure to delve into my comprehensive vinegar guide!
Join the Pickle Party!
I’m buzzing to hear how you enjoy this recipe. Will they be a hit at your next barbecue? A new favorite snack? Or maybe the secret ingredient in your salads?
Share your dill-icious adventures, swap tips, or ask for advice in our community of pickle aficionados.
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