Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. black peppercorns
- 1 tsp. mustard seeds
- 1 tsp. dill seeds
Special equipment needed:
- 1 quart-sized mason jar with lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. In the mason jar, layer sliced cucumbers, minced garlic, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and dill seeds.
3. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumbers, filling the jar to the top.
4. Close the lid tightly and shake the jar to distribute the spices.
5. Let the pickles cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
6. Allow the pickles to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
- Room temperature for cooling
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 35
- Total Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1460mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Apple cider vinegar can be used instead of white vinegar.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of sugar.
- Fresh dill can be used instead of dill seeds.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Use different types of vinegar, such as rice vinegar or red wine vinegar.
- Experiment with different spices, such as coriander seeds or red pepper flakes.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline or vegetable slicer to slice the cucumbers evenly.
- Use a fork to poke holes in the cucumbers before pickling to allow the brine to penetrate better.
- Use a funnel to pour the hot vinegar mixture into the jar to avoid spills.
- For a sweeter pickle, increase the amount of sugar.
Storage instructions:
- Store the pickles in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- These pickles are meant to be served cold and do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pickles in a small dish or on a platter with other appetizers.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or sliced vegetables.
Garnishes:
- Fresh dill sprigs
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced jalapeño peppers
Pairings:
- These pickles pair well with grilled meats or sandwiches.
Suggested side dishes:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pickles are too salty, rinse them under cold water before serving.
- If the pickles are too sour, add a little more sugar to the brine.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean utensils and equipment when making pickles.
- Make sure the jar and lid are clean and free of cracks or chips.
- Store the pickles in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Pickling has been used as a method of preserving food for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations.
Flavor profiles:
- These pickles have a tangy and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of garlic and dill.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these pickles as a snack or appetizer, or as a side dish with a meal.
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