Monday, September 8, 2008

First Homemade Pickles

My first attempt at homemade refrigerator dill pickles was fantastic. They were INCREDIBLY easy! They even tasted better than the ones I buy at the store. I love pickles on burgers, on sandwiches, or just for snacking. That vinegar and salty bite is just perfect for any meal. I used the recipe below. However, I added some sugar just to balance out the vinegar. Next time, I think I will actually use less vinegar, add a little more spice (peppercorns), and a tad bit more sugar.

I can't remember where I got the recipe...but it's not mine and, if I find it again, I'll definitely post the source.


Refrigerator Dill Pickles

1 1/2 lb pickling cucumbers
3 tbsp coarse salt, divided
1 1/4 cups white vinegar
3/4 cup water
1 package fresh baby dill (2/3 ounce or so)
6 cloves garlic, minced

1. Wash cucumbers and cut off ends. Cut lengthwise or into halves. Put cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle them with 1 1/2 tbsp of salt. Toss well Let it in sink or bowl for about 2 hours. Rinse cucumbers well and set aside.

2. In a small pot, combine water and vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir in remaining salt (and sugar). Remove from heat and let it cool about five minutes.

3. In a 1-qt jar with a tight fitting lid, put dill and garlic. Add cucumbers. Pour vinegar mixture over top. Add more water, if necessary to fill jar. Cover with lid. Allow to pickle in refrigerator for at least 3 days before eating. Pickles will keep for about 3 weeks.

4 comments:

Ethan said...

so what exactly are "pickling cucumbers" how do they differ from regular cucumbers and where do I get them?

Deb said...

I discovered that pickling cucumbers are smaller than normal ones...maybe by about half. I just found them in my grocery store. I think they also have more "bumps" on them. However, I honestly think you could use regular ones and they'd taste just as yummy.

Virginia said...

Hi Deb! I can't wait to make these, but I am wondering about the pickles.. it says 1/12, but I know that can't be right.. So, is it 1 lb, 2 lbs, 1/2lb, 1-2 lbs..??

Thanks!

Deb said...

Oops! Sorry Virginia! It's 1 1/2 lbs...but in all honesty, you can just eye ball it...see what will fit in your jar. Be sure too add a bit a sugar or more water since the vinegar amount (I thought) was a bit strong. Hope you and your family are well!!