how to make dill pickles recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best how to make dill pickles recipe

I have been making homemade dill pickles for years and they are always a hit with my family. My kids love helping me pack the jars and watching the cucumbers turn into pickles. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or just having a crunchy snack on hand. Dill pickles are low in calories and a good source of vitamin K, so they are a healthy addition to any meal. I love that I can control the salt and spices to suit our taste.

This recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store. You will need fresh cucumbers, fresh dill, garlic cloves, and pickling salt. The brine is made with vinegar and water, and you can adjust the sweetness by adding a little sugar if you like. I find that using Kirby cucumbers gives the best crunch.

Making pickles at home is a wonderful way to preserve summer produce. It is also a fun activity to do with kids because they can see the transformation. These pickles are great on sandwiches, burgers, or just eaten straight from the jar. I always make a double batch because they disappear quickly.

Classic Homemade Dill Pickles

4.7 from 979 votes

These crisp and tangy dill pickles are made with fresh cucumbers, dill, and garlic. They are perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins (plus 24 hours refrigeration)
Servings: 4 quartsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 25 kcal per serving

🥘Ingredients

For the Pickles

4 pounds pickling cucumbers
4 cups water
4 cups white vinegar
1/4 cup pickling salt
8 cloves garlic, peeled
8 sprigs fresh dill
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
2 teaspoons mustard seeds

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and trim off the blossom ends. If desired, slice them into spears or leave them whole.
2In a large pot, combine the water, vinegar, and pickling salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve the salt.
3Place 2 garlic cloves, 2 sprigs of dill, 1/2 teaspoon peppercorns, and 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds into each jar.
4Pack the cucumbers tightly into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
5Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, covering them completely and leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles by tapping the jars.
6Wipe the jar rims clean, then place the lids on and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
7Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating. For best flavor, wait 1 week.

🔧Equipment

4 quart-sized mason jars with lids
Large pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board
Funnel

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 25 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, add a grape leaf or a pinch of alum to each jar. Use pickling salt to avoid cloudiness. Always use fresh dill for the best flavor.

Watch Video Of How Classic Homemade Dill Pickles Works

This dill pickle recipe is a staple in our kitchen and always a good idea for any occasion. It works perfectly for family gatherings, potlucks, or just having a healthy snack on hand. I hope you enjoy making these as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dill Pickles

1. How long do homemade dill pickles last in the refrigerator?

These pickles will last for up to 3 months in the refrigerator if kept properly sealed. The flavor will continue to develop over time.

2. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?

You can, but pickling cucumbers like Kirby are best because they are firmer and have fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers can become soft.

3. Why are my pickles mushy?

Mushy pickles are usually caused by using overripe cucumbers or not removing the blossom end. Always trim the blossom end and use very fresh cucumbers.

4. Do I have to boil the jars for canning?

No, this is a refrigerator pickle recipe. You do not need to process the jars in a water bath. Just store them in the fridge.

5. Can I add other spices to the brine?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes for heat, bay leaves for extra flavor, or a small piece of horseradish root for a kick.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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