Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe to brighten up your meals? Look no further! This easy dill pickle recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Homemade dill pickles are surprisingly easy to make, and the satisfying crunch and tangy flavor are far superior to anything you’ll find in the store. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this incredibly satisfying and easy dill beans recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup canning salt (not table salt)
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced (optional, for added heat)
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Canning jars (pint-sized are ideal)
- Jar lifter
- Large bowl
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. You can snap them in half if they're particularly long.
Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans (Optional but Recommended)
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes. This step helps to preserve the vibrant green color and crisp texture of the beans. Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well. This step is optional, but highly recommended for best results.
Step 3: Prepare the Brine
In a large saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic, peppercorns, dill seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt is dissolved.
Step 4: Pack the Jars
Carefully pack the blanched green beans into sterilized canning jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top. Add a sprig of fresh dill to each jar.
Step 5: Pour the Brine
Slowly pour the hot brine over the green beans, leaving that half-inch headspace. Use a non-metallic utensil to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth.
Step 6: Seal and Process (for shelf-stable pickles)
Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten fingertip tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust processing time based on your altitude – check a reliable canning resource for specific instructions). Remove the jars and let them cool completely. You should hear a satisfying "pop" as the jars seal.
Step 7: Refrigerate (for immediate consumption)
If you don't want to can the dill beans for shelf-stable storage, simply pack the beans in clean jars and refrigerate. They'll be ready to enjoy in a few hours, and will last for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your dill beans will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients.
- Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for preventing spoilage, especially if you're canning the pickles for long-term storage. Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water; then sterilize by boiling in water for 10 minutes.
- Don't overpack the jars: Leave enough headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
Variations:
- Add other spices: Experiment with different spices like mustard seeds, coriander seeds, or celery seeds.
- Use different types of vinegar: Experiment with rice vinegar or red wine vinegar for a unique flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables: Consider adding sliced carrots, onions, or cauliflower florets.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your serving and specific ingredients used. A general estimate is:
- Calories: Around 25-30 calories
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fat: Less than 1 gram
Enjoy your delicious homemade dill beans! They're perfect as a side dish, snack, or addition to sandwiches and salads. This easy recipe provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the rewards of homemade cooking and easily incorporate healthy meals into your weekly routine. They make excellent gifts, too!