Easy Spicy Dill Pickle Spears Recipe

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Looking for a quick and flavorful snack? These easy spicy dill pickle spears are a fantastic way to enjoy the tangy crunch of pickles without the wait of traditional canning.

You can whip up these refrigerator pickles using Persian cucumbers, vinegar, and a blend of spices in just a few steps. Whether you’re an experienced home preserver or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and perfect for adding a zesty kick to your meals.

Making Refrigerator Pickles

Buy Pickling Cucumbers on Sale

If you don’t grow your own cucumbers, consider buying cucumbers in bulk when they’re on sale. This is a smart way to save money, especially if you preserve them for later use.

And while you’re at it, look for watermelon on sale, too. Then you can make our delicious and unusual watermelon rind pickle as well.

By canning or making refrigerator pickles, you extend the shelf life of the pickles and avoid spoilage. This lets you take advantage of discounts without worrying about them going bad quickly.

Preserving pickles at home also means you can customize the flavors and control the ingredients. In the long run, it reduces food waste and helps you stretch your grocery budget further.

Refrigerator pickles are a quick way to make homemade dill pickle spears without the need for canning equipment or long processing times. By storing the pickles in the fridge, they stay crisp and flavorful.

This method offers a much simpler and faster option than traditional canning. However, it still delivers that satisfying tang and crunch.

What You’ll Need to Make Spicy Dill Pickle Spears

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients and equipment to ensure smooth pickle-making.

Ingredients

• 6-8 Persian cucumbers
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons dill
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water

Equipment

• 2 16oz mason jars with lids
• Medium saucepan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle or funnel for pouring the liquid

Want a printable version of this recipe? Scroll down to the bottom! ⬇️

How to Make Dill Pickle Spears

Follow these simple steps to make your own spicy dill pickle spears.

First, prepare the brine. Combine the sugar, salt, water, and vinegar in a medium saucepan.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

While the brine cools, slice the Persian cucumbers into quarters lengthwise to create spears. Then evenly divide the minced garlic, dill, mustard seeds, and peppercorns between the two jars.

Now it’s time to pack the jars. Place the cucumber spears into the jars, packing them in tightly but without crushing them.

Finally, you’ll add the brine. After the brine has cooled, carefully pour it into the mason jars, and make sure the cucumbers are fully submerged. Use a ladle or funnel to avoid spills.

Now it’s time to seal the jars tightly and refrigerate. For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit for at least two days before enjoying them. They will reach their peak flavor after about six days.

Canning Instructions

Are you interested in learning how to can? If so, take a look at the canning and preserving guides, recipes and tutorials on my sister site, An Off Grid Life.

You’ll find everything from a review of the Ball Canning Book to more simple pickling recipes, like this one for pickled red onions.

If you prefer to make shelf-stable pickles using a canning method, follow these steps:

1. Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
2. Follow the same brine preparation and cucumber slicing steps as outlined above.
3. Pack the cucumber spears into the sterilized jars, ensuring they are submerged in the brine.
4. Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
5. store the jars in a cool, dark place once sealed. Properly canned pickles can last up to a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about how to make these easy, spicy dill pickle spears? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions. Go ahead and leave yours in the comments section.

How long do refrigerator pickles last?

Refrigerator pickles will keep in the fridge for up to four weeks, although their texture and flavor are best within the first two weeks. Be sure to keep the pickles fully submerged in the brine for freshness.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking. To make the pickles spicier, add red pepper flakes or fresh slices of jalapeño to the jars and cucumbers. If you prefer milder pickles, reduce the amount of peppercorns or skip additional spicy ingredients.

Do I have to use Persian cucumbers?

No, you don’t have to use Persian cucumbers. While they are a great option because of their thin skin and crisp texture, you can substitute them with other types of cucumbers like Kirby or English cucumbers. Just be sure to adjust the slicing to fit your jars.

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