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Sweet chunk pickles

Sweet chunk pickles

Now, let’s talk about why you need this recipe in your life. Imagine a jar full of homemade sweet chunk pickles that bring a burst of flavor with every bite. 
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Sweet chunk pickles
Servings: 1 jar
Calories: 1689kcal
Author: Rebecca Novak

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Sterilized glass jars

Ingredients

  • 1 quart dill pickles
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pickling blend
  • 3 cloves of fresh garlic

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dill Pickles

  • First things first, grab your quart of dill pickles. Cut them into chunks, approximately one-inch each. Gather these into a large bowl.

Step 2: Spice It Up

  • Now, here’s where the flavor begins. Add one tablespoon of mustard seeds to your pickle chunks. These tiny seeds will bring bursts of mild heat to your pickles. Toss in one teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes if you appreciate a bit of extra kick.

Step 3: Sweeten the Deal

  • Time to balance that tangy and spicy with some sweetness. Pour two cups of granulated sugar over the pickles and spices. Mix everything well. The sugar will start to draw out moisture, creating a syrupy liquid that soaks into the pickles.

Step 4: Add the Vinegar

  • Pour half a cup of apple cider vinegar into the bowl. This adds a tart element that makes the pickles irresistibly tangy. Mix everything until the sugar starts to dissolve.

Step 5: Include the Pickling Blend

  • Add two tablespoons of pickling blend to the mix. This blend usually contains a mix of allspice, coriander, and other pickling spices that deepen the overall flavor profile.

Step 6: Garlic Goodness

  • Crush three cloves of fresh garlic and toss them into the bowl. Fresh garlic infuses the pickles with that extra aromatic punch.

Step 7: Jar It Up

  • Transfer the mixture into sterilized glass jars, making sure the pickles are fully submerged in the liquid. Seal the jars tightly.

Step 8: Let It Rest

  • Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. The longer you wait, the better the flavors meld together. It’s worth the wait, trust me.

Notes

  • Dill Pickles: These form the base of the recipe. You could start with fresh cucumbers, but using pre-made dill pickles adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • Mustard Seeds: Small but mighty, they provide a burst of heat without overwhelming the palate.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a bit of a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances the tangy flavors and cuts through the vinegar.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess; make sure not to substitute this as its flavor complements the sweetness perfectly.
  • Pickling Blend: This is essential for a well-rounded pickle flavor. Feel free to make your blend or buy a pre-made one.
  • Fresh Garlic: Always opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for that authentic flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 1689kcal
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