Crunchy Homemade Pickle Spears Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of water
  • 2 cups of white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 6 cloves of garlic, halfed
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dill seeds
  • 2 large dill sprigs
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 lbs of fresh pickling cucumbers, cut into spears

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine water, vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve completely.
  2. Lower the heat and add garlic, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, dill seeds, large dill sprigs, and a bay leaf. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. While the brine is simmering, wash the cucumbers and cut them into spears.
  4. Place the cucumber spears into clean, heatproof jars. Make sure the jars are dry.
  5. Pour the hot brine into jars over the cucumber spears, ensuring they are fully submerged. Distribute the spices evenly among the jars.
  6. Let the jars cool to room temperature. This usually takes about 2 hours.
  7. Seal the jars and refrigerate them. Let the cucumbers marinate in the brine for at least 48 hours before eating.
  8. Enjoy your homemade pickle spears as a snack or with a meal. Remember to keep them refrigerated and consume within 2 weeks for best flavor.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos for a spicy variation.
  • Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, for unique flavors.
  • Include additional spices like turmeric, ginger, or cinnamon for a twist on the traditional flavor profile.
  • Replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative.
  • Try using different types of cucumbers, such as Persian cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers, for varying textures and flavors.
  • Add sliced onions or bell peppers to the jars for extra crunch and flavor.
  • For a sweeter option, include some pickling spices like cloves or allspice.
  • Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add a unique aromatic touch to the pickles.
  • If you prefer a tangier taste, increase the amount of vinegar in the brine.
  • For a different visual appeal, use a combination of cucumber spears and whole baby cucumbers.

Recipe overview

Ready to turn your fresh cucumbers into delicious and tangy homemade pickle spears? This simple recipe is perfect for first-time picklers and seasoned pros alike. With a mixture of vinegar, kosher salt, sugar, and an assortment of flavorful herbs and spices, you'll be creating a brine that transforms fresh cucumbers into irresistibly tangy pickle spears. In this recipe, you will boil the brining mixture, add the spices, and simmer everything together to let the flavors meld. Then, you'll pour the brine over fresh cucumbers and let them marinate in the refrigerator. Yes, it's that simple! Just remember, the key to well-marinated pickles is patience. Let them soak in the brine for at least 48 hours before enjoying them. So, let's get started on your pickle making journey. Making your own pickles is not only a fun and rewarding kitchen project, but it also allows you to control the ingredients you consume. Plus, these homemade pickle spears make a great gift! Whether you're snacking on them straight from the jar or adding them to your favorite sandwiches and burgers, these pickle spears are sure to impress. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. How long do the pickles need to marinate in the brine? The pickles should marinate in the brine for at least 48 hours before eating.
  2. How long can I store the pickle spears? The pickle spears can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for the best flavor.
  3. Can I use different types of cucumbers? Yes, you can use different types of cucumbers, but make sure they are fresh pickling cucumbers for the best results.
  4. Can I adjust the amount of vinegar or salt in the brine? It is recommended to follow the recipe proportions for the brine to achieve the desired flavor and preservation.
  5. Can I reuse the brine for multiple batches? It is not recommended to reuse the brine for multiple batches as it may affect the flavor and quality of subsequent batches.
  6. Can I add other spices or herbs to the brine? Yes, you can experiment with other spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. However, it is important to maintain the balance of flavors and proportions in the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface to safely cut and prepare the cucumbers.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the cucumbers into spears.
  • Large pot - A pot large enough to hold the brine mixture and simmer the ingredients.
  • Heatproof jars - Clean jars that can withstand high temperatures when pouring the hot brine.
  • Measuring cups - To accurately measure the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar for the brine.
  • Measuring spoons - To measure the precise amounts of spices and seeds.
  • Spoon - For stirring the brine mixture.
  • Funnel - To easily and neatly pour the hot brine into the jars without spilling.

Origin stories

Pickles have a long and fascinating history that dates back to 2030 BC, when cucumbers from their native India were pickled in the Tigris Valley. The art of pickling then spread to other cultures, gaining popularity due to its ability to preserve food for long journeys. Even Christopher Columbus is reputed to have packed pickles on his ships to prevent scurvy among his sailors. In more recent times, pickles have become a staple in many cuisines worldwide, and in the United States, the pickle spear specifically has found its place as a beloved side dish to sandwiches and burgers, or simply a snack on its own. It's interesting to think that this humble cucumber, soaked in a flavorful brine, carries with it the echoes of ancient preservation techniques from thousands of years ago.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.