Quick Pickles: The Crunchy, Tangy Goodness You Can DIY at Home!
If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing quite as delightful as the tangy crunch of a good pickle. Whether it’s the satisfying snap of a dill spear alongside a sandwich or the puckery pop of a pickled onion atop a taco, pickles are a zesty addition to any meal.
But have you ever thought about making your own pickles at home? If not, you’re in for a treat! Not only is it surprisingly simple, but it also comes with a few practical perks. So, strap yourself in, because we’re about to embark on a quick pickle-making adventure!
Why Make Your Own Pickles?
Making your own pickles may seem like an unnecessary extra step when you can easily grab a jar from the supermarket. But believe me, the homemade versions are game-changers, and here’s why:
1. Flavors Galore: When you make your own pickles, the flavor possibilities are endless. Want to try pickled cucumbers with a hint of garlic and dill? Or perhaps some spicy pickled carrots with habanero peppers? The world is your pickle jar!
2. Cut Down on Waste: Those store-bought pickles usually come in single-use plastic containers or glass jars. By making your own pickles, you can reuse jars and reduce your contribution to the waste problem. It’s a simple but effective step towards living more sustainably.
3. Know What’s In Your Food: Have you ever read the label on a jar of pickles? Some have ingredients you might not recognize, and if you’re trying to eat cleanly, that can be a concern. Homemade pickles let you control exactly what goes into your food. No preservatives, no artificial colors, no worries!
4. Saving Money: Lastly, pickling your own vegetables can save you a good chunk of change. Store-bought pickles can be pricey, especially the gourmet varieties. But with homemade pickles, you can enjoy gourmet flavors at a fraction of the cost.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Sauce Goddess Super Chunk Steakhouse Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp black peppercorn
- ¼ cup cane sugar
- 1 lb pickling cucumbers
- 1 clove of garlic
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers into ¼ “ thick pieces and place into large heat safe bowl or canning jars.
- Combine all ingredients except the cucumber slices in a sauté pan.
- Warm until almost boiling.
- Pour hot liquid over the cucumbers.
- Stir to combine.
- Place into tall jars or storage containers and cool.
Using Your Quick Pickles
Now that you’re convinced to start pickling at home, you might wonder, where can I use these delightful homemade pickles? Well, my friend, the options are bountiful!
1. Sandwiches and Burgers: Pickles and sandwiches go together like peanut butter and jelly. A juicy burger also benefits from a slice of tangy pickle.
2. Salads: Chop up some pickled cucumbers or beets and toss them in a salad for an unexpected burst of flavor.
3. Charcuterie Boards: A pickled vegetable can add a lovely contrast to the fatty richness of cured meats and cheeses.
4. Tacos and BBQ: Spicy pickled onions or jalapenos can be a great addition to tacos, BBQ meats, or even pulled pork sandwiches.
5. Drinks: Yes, drinks! Have you ever heard of a pickleback? It’s a shot of whiskey followed by a shot of pickle juice. And let’s not forget the classic Bloody Mary, often garnished with a pickle spear.
I hope I’ve inspired you to take a step into the tangy world of quick pickles. They’re a simple, practical way to add a burst of flavor to your meals, reduce waste, and know exactly what’s in your food. And besides, isn’t it fun to say, “I made these myself!” the next time someone compliments the pickles at your cookout? Trust me, once you start pickling, you won’t want to stop.
Check out the full video tutorial and grab some Super Chunk Steakhouse Seasoning here!
