How to Make Dill Pickles - A Step-by-Step Guide

Dill pickles are a classic favorite for many people, whether it’s as a standalone snack or a zesty addition to a sandwich or burger. The combination of vinegar, dill, and spices creates a tangy and refreshing flavor that is irresistible to pickle lovers.

Many people enjoy making their own dill pickles at home because it allows them to customize the flavor to their liking and ensures that they are free from any unnecessary preservatives or additives. Plus, the process of making pickles...

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Ingredients

  • 8 pounds 3 to 4 inch long pickling cucumbers
  • 4 cups white vinegar
  • 12 cups water
  • ⅔ cup pickling salt
  • 16 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
  • 8 sprigs fresh dill weed
  • 8 heads fresh dill weed

Information

  • Prep Time: 2 hrs
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
  • Servings: 64
  • Yield: 8 to 1 - quart jars

  • Wash cucumbers, and place in the sink (I use the bathtub!) with cold water and lots of ice cubes. Soak in ice water for at least 2 hours but no more than 8 hours. Refresh ice as required. Sterilize 8 (1 quart) canning jars and lids in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
  • In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine the vinegar, water, and pickling salt. Bring the brine to a rapid boil.
  • In each jar, place 2 half-cloves of garlic, one head of dill, then enough cucumbers to fill the jar (about 1 pound). Then add 2 more garlic halves, and 1 sprig of dill. Fill jars with hot brine. Seal jars, making sure you have cleaned the jar's rims of any residue.
  • Process sealed jars in a boiling water bath. Process quart jars for 15 minutes.
  • Store pickles for a minimum of 8 weeks before eating. Refrigerate after opening. Pickles will keep for up to 2 years if stored in a cool dry place.
  • Nutrition

    10 cal.

    • Total Fat: 0g
    • Sodium: 1155mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 2g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
    • Protein: 0g
    • Vitamin C: 2mg
    • Calcium: 13mg
    • Iron: 0mg
    • Potassium: 92mg