best award winning german pickle recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best best award winning german pickle recipe

I have been making pickles for years and this German pickle recipe is the one that won first place at our county fair. My family loves the crunchy texture and the perfect balance of vinegar and spices. The kids even ask for them in their lunchboxes. This recipe is great for using up extra cucumbers from the garden and the fermentation process adds healthy probiotics that are good for digestion. I make a big batch every summer and we enjoy them all year long.

Best Award Winning German Pickle Recipe

4.6 from 1469 votes

These award winning German pickles are crisp, tangy, and full of dill and garlic flavor. They are simple to make and perfect for snacking or serving alongside sandwiches and burgers.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins plus 2 weeks fermenting time
Servings: Makes 1 quartCuisine: InternationalCalories: 15 kcal per pickle

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

2 cups water
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons pickling salt
1 tablespoon sugar

For the Pickles

1 pound pickling cucumbers, sliced into spears
4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
2 heads fresh dill
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
1 bay leaf

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the cucumbers and slice them into spears or rounds.
2In a small saucepan, combine water, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, pickling salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3Place the garlic, dill, peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and bay leaf in the bottom of the mason jar.
4Pack the cucumber spears tightly into the jar.
5Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace.
6Seal the jar with the lid and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 weeks before eating for the best flavor.

🔧Equipment

1 quart mason jar with lid
Small saucepan
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 15 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, soak the cucumbers in ice water for 30 minutes before packing them in the jar. You can adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter pickle.

Watch Video Of How Best Award Winning German Pickle Recipe Works

This German pickle recipe is a staple in my kitchen and always gets rave reviews at family gatherings. It is simple to make and the results are so rewarding. I hope you give it a try and enjoy these crunchy, tangy pickles as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Award Winning German Pickle

1. How long do these German pickles need to ferment?

They need to sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks to develop the best flavor. The longer they sit, the more tangy they become.

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

Pickling cucumbers are best because they are firmer and have fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers can get mushy. If you use them, slice them thicker and skip the ice water soak.

3. Do I need to sterilize the jar?

Yes, wash the jar and lid in hot soapy water and rinse well. For extra safety, you can boil the jar for 10 minutes. This helps prevent bad bacteria from growing.

4. Why are my pickles soft?

Soft pickles usually mean the cucumbers were too old or the brine was not strong enough. Use fresh, firm cucumbers and make sure the brine has enough salt. Adding a grape leaf or a slice of horseradish to the jar can help keep them crunchy.

5. Can I reuse the brine for another batch?

It is not recommended because the brine loses its acidity and flavor after one use. It is best to make fresh brine for each batch to get the best results.

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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