Hot Salty Dills: A Delightful Canned Pickle Recipe
Indulging in homemade pickles is an experience that transcends generations, and this delightful recipe for Hot Salty Dills comes from my cherished 83-year-old neighbor, who has been a fountain of knowledge about the art of canning and preserving. Not only do these pickles provide a delicious crunch, but they also capture the essence of summer in a jar, making them a beloved addition to any meal or snack table. With each bite, you’ll discover why everyone who tries them often attempts to sneak a jar away for themselves. This recipe offers a simple and rewarding way to bring that unique flavor into your home.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes (excludes boiling water) |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Category | Very Low Carbs |
| Servings | 8 |
| Calories | 21 per serving |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 21 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 3543.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 1.1 g |
| Protein | 0.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 4 ½ cups |
| Cider Vinegar | 2 cups |
| Canning Salt | ¼ cup |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 to 5 (to taste) |
| Hot Peppers | 3 to 5 (to taste) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers and trimming off the stem ends. This ensures that your pickles are not only clean but also have a fresh taste.
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Pack the Jars: Depending on your choice of jar size, follow these guidelines:
- For PINT Jars: Place 1 hot pepper, 1 clove of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of dill seed at the bottom of each jar. Then, pack the cucumbers tightly into the jars.
- For QUART Jars: Add 2 hot peppers, 2 cloves of garlic, and 2 teaspoons of dill seed before tightly packing with cucumbers.
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Create the Brine: In a large pot, bring the water, cider vinegar, and canning salt to a vigorous boil. This mixture will serve as the brine that flavors your pickles.
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Fill the Jars: Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in each jar, ensuring that they are completely submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top.
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Seal the Jars: Place the lids on each jar and screw on the rings until they are fingertip-tight. This step is crucial to ensure that the jars seal properly during the canning process.
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Process in Water Bath: Place the jars in a hot water bath, ensuring that they are covered with at least an inch of boiling water. Process the jars until the pickles appear “white,” which typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
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Cool and Seal: Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and set them aside to cool. You’ll hear the satisfying “pop” of the seals as they form. If any jars do not seal, place them in the refrigerator for immediate enjoyment.
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Storage: If you have leftover brine, don’t discard it! You can refrigerate it for future use. Note that if you run short on brine, it’s perfectly acceptable to make a little more as needed, although it can be a bit frustrating.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Heat: Feel free to modify the number of hot peppers according to your heat preference; if you love spice, add an extra pepper for a kick!
- Flavorful Additions: For those who wish to explore different flavors, consider adding spices like mustard seeds or peppercorns for added depth.
- Enjoying Your Pickles: These delightful dills can be enjoyed on their own, added to sandwiches, or used as a zesty garnish for various dishes.
With the guidance of a master canner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, drawing compliments and smiles from family and friends alike. Each jar is not only a testament to delicious flavors but also a piece of culinary wisdom passed down through the ages. Enjoy your journey into canning and the delightful crunch of these Hot Salty Dills!
