Just when I thought my pickling adventures couldn’t get any spicier, along come cucumbers asking for a hot twist. It seems my kitchen has officially turned into a spicy pickle lab, and I’m not mad about it!
These Spicy Pickled Cucumbers are an explosion of flavors, where the coolness of cucumbers meets a fiery kick of spice.
It’s like sending your taste buds on a thrilling roller coaster ride of tangy and spicy goodness.
Whether you’re a heat-seeker or just looking to add a spicy edge to your pickling repertoire, these cucumbers are your ticket to a flavor-packed adventure.
Spicy Pickled Cucumbers Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large Cucumber
- 1 medium Jalapeno Oh, you want real spicy? Try using a habanero instead. I dare you!
- 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.
- 1-2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes I use only 1 teaspoon but if you want the extra kick, use 2!
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber and jalapeno to your desired thickness.
- Pack the veggie slices tightly into a sterilized jar. Add the red chili flakes and peppercorns if using.
- Combine water, white vinegar, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Once the brine starts to boil, slowly pour it over the cucumbers and jalapenos in the jar, making sure the vegetables are completely covered.
- 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 them pickle for at least 24 hours. The longer they sit, the spicier they get! Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
Ways to Enjoy Your Pickled Cucumbers
These Spicy Pickled Cucumbers are not just a treat; they’re a versatile culinary powerhouse. There are so many ways to eat them. Here are some of my favorites:
- Zesty Salad Addition: Chop them up for an extra kick in your green, pasta, or potato salads. They’ll add a spicy crunch that turns any salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Bold Burger and Hot Dog Topping: Elevate your grilled favorites with a few slices. Their heat and tanginess will give a delicious twist to these classic dishes.
- Cheese Board Charm: Add them to your cheese and charcuterie boards for a tangy, spicy contrast that complements rich cheeses and cured meats.
- Tacos with a Twist: Garnish your tacos with these pickles for a burst of spicy flavor, adding depth to every bite.
- Sushi and Poke Bowls: Their crunch and spice make a perfect addition to sushi rolls or poke bowls, enhancing the delicate flavors of fish and rice.
- Stir-Fry Zing: Toss them into your stir-fry dishes for a quick, spicy zing. They work great with both meat and vegetable stir-fries.
- Refreshing Sandwich and Wrap Filler: Layer them in sandwiches and wraps for a pleasantly spicy crunch that complements various fillings.
- Appetizing Antipasto: Include them in your antipasto for a tangy and spicy element that pairs well with olives, artichokes, and roasted peppers.
- Spicy Snacking Right Out of the Jar: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy them is to snack on them directly from the jar, where their bold flavor can truly shine.
- Breakfast Side: Try them alongside your morning eggs or avocado toast for a wake-up call full of flavor.
Spicing Up Your Recipe
The secret to the perfect batch of cucumbers lies in the symphony of spices and flavors you choose. Here’s how to craft a brine that’s bursting with taste:
- Red Chili Flakes: The star of the show for heat lovers. Adjust the quantity to control the spice level to your liking.
- Crushed Garlic Cloves: A must for adding depth. Their robust flavor infuses the brine, creating a savory backdrop for the cucumbers.
- Mustard Seeds: Tiny but mighty, these seeds bring a subtle, tangy spice that complements the cucumbers’ crispness.
- Black Peppercorns: For that classic, spicy bite, adding an aromatic warmth to your pickles.
- Dill Weed: A traditional pickling spice, dill adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy elements.
- Coriander Seeds: Introduce a lemony, slightly sweet note that pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the chili.
- Bay Leaves: Their herbal notes provide a subtle complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Whole Cloves: Just a few can impart a warm, aromatic sweetness, enhancing the spices’ interplay.
- Allspice Berries: These add a hint of sweet, warm flavors, making for an intriguing taste experience.
- Sliced Ginger: Adds a zesty, pungent kick that elevates the heat and flavor of your pickles.
- Cumin Seeds: For a hint of earthy spice, cumin seeds can add an unexpected twist to your pickles.
Experiment with these spices and vinegars to find your perfect spicy pickle recipe. Remember, each batch is an opportunity for a new flavor discovery!
Join Our Spicy Pickling Journey!
I can’t wait for you to try these Spicy Pickled Cucumbers and join our community of spicy pickle lovers. Share your spicy pickling stories, ask questions, or offer your fiery tips.
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