Description
Sweet Heat Pickles are a delicious combination of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing! Made with dill pickles, sugar, garlic, and a kick of heat from jalapeños and red pepper flakes, these pickles are perfect as a snack, a side dish, or a zesty topping for your favorite sandwiches and burgers. Easy to prepare with no special equipment required, this recipe is a must-try for pickle lovers looking to spice things up!
Ingredients
- 1 large jar (about 46 oz) plain dill pickles
- 2 cups sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh jalapeño, chopped (adjust for heat level)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Drain and Slice the Pickles:
- Open the jar of dill pickles and pour out the pickle juice (discard it).
- Slice the pickles into ¼ to ½-inch thick rounds, depending on your preference.
- Prepare the Jar for Layering:
- Save the original pickle jar or use a larger jar if needed to make layering easier.
- Layer the Pickles and Ingredients:
- Add 1 ½ cups of pickles to the bottom of the jar.
- Top the pickles with ½ cup sugar, 2 cloves of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon chopped jalapeños.
- Repeat the layering process until all the pickles are used. Pour any remaining sugar on top to ensure it dissolves completely during the resting process.
- Let the Sugar Dissolve:
- Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit on the counter for about 1 hour, or until the sugar begins to liquefy into a syrup.
- Mix the Pickles:
- Gently shake the jar or stir the contents to evenly coat the pickles in the syrup. Make sure to pull any undissolved sugar from the bottom.
- Rest and Refrigerate:
- Allow the pickles to sit on the counter for several more hours, or overnight, to fully absorb the flavors.
- Transfer the jar to the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 additional days before serving. This resting time enhances the flavor and texture of the pickles.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the pickles as a snack, side dish, or topping for burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapeños and red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add additional ingredients like sliced onions, carrots, or bell peppers for a more colorful and flavorful pickle mix.
- Shake the Jar Often: During the resting process, gently shake the jar to keep the sugar and spices evenly distributed.
- Storage: Once refrigerated, Sweet Heat Pickles can last for up to 4 weeks. Make sure to keep them in an airtight jar.
- Serving Tip: Pair these pickles with BBQ dishes, grilled meats, or even a charcuterie board for a burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rest Time: 1-2 days (including counter and refrigeration time)
- Category: Snacks, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American