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Sweet Heat Pickles

Sweet Heat Pickles Recipe with Bold Southern Kick


Ingredients

Scale
  • 68 Kirby or Persian cucumbers, sliced into coins
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (seeds in for heat)
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh dill sprigs (optional, for depth)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Veg: Wash and slice cucumbers, jalapeños, and onions. Smash the garlic.
  2. Sterilize Jar: Rinse a 1-quart jar with hot water or run through the dishwasher.
  3. Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegars, sugar, salt, and all spices. Bring to a simmer until sugar dissolves.
  4. Pack the Jar: Layer cucumbers, onions, jalapeños, garlic, and dill into the jar.
  5. Add Hot Brine: Pour brine over the veggies, covering completely.
  6. Cool & Refrigerate: Let jar cool, seal, and chill for at least 24 hours.

Notes

Use a mandoline for even, thin slices—it keeps texture consistent and soaks up that wild brine better.