Spicy Dill Pickled Okra Crunchy and Flavorful Snack

Are you ready to crunch into something delightful? Spicy Dill Pickled Okra packs a flavorful punch that can brighten up your snacks and meals. This easy recipe shows you how to make your own crunchy treat at home. With just a few fresh ingredients and spices, you can create a tasty snack that’s perfect for sharing. Let’s dive in and get those jars ready for some pickling fun!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

Fresh okra: Use 1 pound of fresh okra. Trim the tops and tails.

Essential pickling ingredients: You need 4 cups of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.

Flavor-enhancing spices and herbs: Gather 4 cloves of garlic (peeled), 2 teaspoons of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of dill seeds, and 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns. Don’t forget fresh dill sprigs for garnish!

These ingredients work together to create a crunchy and flavorful snack. The okra stays crisp, while the spices add a spicy kick. You can find the Full Recipe to get all the steps for making this delicious treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation and Sterilization

To start, you need to prepare your jars for pickling. Take four pint-sized mason jars and their lids. Boil them in water for 10 minutes. This step keeps your pickles safe. After boiling, let the jars dry upside down on a clean cloth. It’s important to keep them clean.

Next, we move on to boiling the brine mixture. In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir it until the salt and sugar dissolve. Bring it to a boil. This brine is the heart of your pickles.

Packing and Sealing

Once you have your brine ready, it’s time to pack the jars. Divide 1 pound of fresh okra evenly among the sterilized jars. In each jar, add 1 clove of peeled garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon of dill seeds, and a few black peppercorns. This mix adds great flavor.

Now, carefully pour the hot brine over the okra in each jar. Make sure the okra is fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. This space helps the pickles stay fresh.

Next, we need to seal the jars. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. This step removes any brine residue. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw the metal bands fingertip-tight.

Processing the Jars

For the next step, use the water bath canning method. Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 to 15 minutes. This process creates a seal. Adjust the time based on your elevation. You’ll need a longer time for higher elevations.

After the water bath, remove the jars and let them cool completely. Place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. As they cool, listen for the lids to pop. This pop means you have a good seal. Store your pickled okra in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week. This wait helps enhance the flavor. You can find the full recipe [here](#).

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

For the best flavor in spicy dill pickled okra, I suggest you let the jars sit for at least a week. This time allows the spices to blend with the okra. You can taste your pickles after a week. If you want more heat, add extra red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level.

Safety Tips for Canning

When canning, proper sterilization is key. Always boil your jars and lids for ten minutes before use. This step kills germs and keeps your pickles safe. After sealing, check that each lid is tight. A good seal means the lid won’t pop up when you press it. If the lid pops back, the jar is not sealed.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy dill pickled okra is great as a snack or appetizer. Serve it with cheese and crackers for a tasty platter. You can also add it to salads for a crunchy kick. Try it in your favorite sandwiches. The flavors really shine when paired with rich meats or creamy dips. Enjoy this crunchy treat any time!

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can boost the taste of your spicy dill pickled okra easily. Adding different spices or herbs can change the flavor profile. Try adding coriander seeds for a citrusy twist. You can also use fresh thyme or oregano for a unique touch. Experimenting with vinegar types can create different tastes too. For a milder flavor, use white vinegar. If you want a sweeter taste, try rice vinegar. Each choice will give your pickled okra a new life.

Dietary Adjustments

You might want to make a low-sodium version of this recipe. Simply reduce the amount of sea salt. You can also use salt substitutes to keep the taste strong without the sodium. For those who follow a vegan diet, you’re in luck! The base recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just ensure you use plant-based salt substitutes if you choose to adjust salt levels.

Fruit & Vegetable Additions

Get creative by incorporating other vegetables into your jars. Carrots or cauliflower add color and crunch. You can even add some sliced bell peppers for a sweet flavor. If you want to mix in fruits, consider using sliced apples or pears. They add a nice sweetness that contrasts well with the heat. Just remember to balance sweet and savory for the best results.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storage

Store your spicy dill pickled okra in a cool, dark place. The ideal temperature is around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps keep the flavor fresh. Try to avoid direct sunlight, as it may affect the taste and color.

Pickled okra can last for several months. When kept properly, it can stay good for up to one year. However, for the best taste, enjoy it within six months.

Refrigeration vs. Pantry Storage

You should refrigerate your pickled okra after opening the jar. This keeps it fresh and crunchy longer. Once opened, it can last about 2 to 4 weeks in the fridge.

If unopened, you can store the jars in the pantry. They will still taste great for many months. Just make sure they are sealed well before storing.

Signs of Spoilage

Check for signs of spoilage before eating pickled okra. If the lid is bulging or the jar is leaking, do not eat it.

Also, look for any strange smells or colors. If the okra is soft or mushy, that is a warning sign too. Always trust your senses. If something seems off, throw it away safely.

FAQs

Common Questions About Pickling

How long do I need to wait before eating?

I recommend waiting at least one week. This time allows the flavors to blend well. The longer you wait, the better the taste will be. Some prefer to wait two weeks for a richer flavor.

Can I reuse the brine for new batches?

Reusing brine is possible, but it may lose flavor. Always check for signs of spoilage before using it again. If you plan to reuse, add fresh spices and salt to boost flavor.

Nutritional Information

Health benefits of okra

Okra is rich in vitamins and minerals. It provides fiber, which aids digestion. It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. Eating okra may support heart health and lower blood sugar levels.

Caloric content per serving

A serving of spicy dill pickled okra has about 20 calories. This makes it a low-calorie snack. It is a great option for those watching their calorie intake while still enjoying a flavorful treat.

Where to Buy Okra

Sourcing fresh okra

Look for okra in local farmers’ markets or grocery stores. Fresh okra should feel firm and look bright green. If you can, choose pods that are small to medium-sized for the best flavor.

Recommended suppliers or markets

I suggest checking out your local co-op or specialty grocery store. These places often stock fresh, high-quality okra. You can also find it at some big-chain grocery stores, especially during peak season.

In this blog post, we explored how to pickle okra. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about flavor variations and the best storage practices. Pickling okra can add a tasty crunch to your meals. It is rewarding and safe if you follow the guidance provided. Enjoy your pickled okra as snacks or sides, and feel free to experiment with ingredients. Happy pickling!

- Fresh okra: Use 1 pound of fresh okra. Trim the tops and tails. - Essential pickling ingredients: You need 4 cups of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. - Flavor-enhancing spices and herbs: Gather 4 cloves of garlic (peeled), 2 teaspoons of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of dill seeds, and 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns. Don't forget fresh dill sprigs for garnish! These ingredients work together to create a crunchy and flavorful snack. The okra stays crisp, while the spices add a spicy kick. You can find the Full Recipe to get all the steps for making this delicious treat! To start, you need to prepare your jars for pickling. Take four pint-sized mason jars and their lids. Boil them in water for 10 minutes. This step keeps your pickles safe. After boiling, let the jars dry upside down on a clean cloth. It’s important to keep them clean. Next, we move on to boiling the brine mixture. In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir it until the salt and sugar dissolve. Bring it to a boil. This brine is the heart of your pickles. Once you have your brine ready, it’s time to pack the jars. Divide 1 pound of fresh okra evenly among the sterilized jars. In each jar, add 1 clove of peeled garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon of dill seeds, and a few black peppercorns. This mix adds great flavor. Now, carefully pour the hot brine over the okra in each jar. Make sure the okra is fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. This space helps the pickles stay fresh. Next, we need to seal the jars. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. This step removes any brine residue. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw the metal bands fingertip-tight. For the next step, use the water bath canning method. Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 to 15 minutes. This process creates a seal. Adjust the time based on your elevation. You’ll need a longer time for higher elevations. After the water bath, remove the jars and let them cool completely. Place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. As they cool, listen for the lids to pop. This pop means you have a good seal. Store your pickled okra in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week. This wait helps enhance the flavor. You can find the full recipe [here](#). For the best flavor in spicy dill pickled okra, I suggest you let the jars sit for at least a week. This time allows the spices to blend with the okra. You can taste your pickles after a week. If you want more heat, add extra red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level. When canning, proper sterilization is key. Always boil your jars and lids for ten minutes before use. This step kills germs and keeps your pickles safe. After sealing, check that each lid is tight. A good seal means the lid won't pop up when you press it. If the lid pops back, the jar is not sealed. Spicy dill pickled okra is great as a snack or appetizer. Serve it with cheese and crackers for a tasty platter. You can also add it to salads for a crunchy kick. Try it in your favorite sandwiches. The flavors really shine when paired with rich meats or creamy dips. Enjoy this crunchy treat any time! {{image_2}} You can boost the taste of your spicy dill pickled okra easily. Adding different spices or herbs can change the flavor profile. Try adding coriander seeds for a citrusy twist. You can also use fresh thyme or oregano for a unique touch. Experimenting with vinegar types can create different tastes too. For a milder flavor, use white vinegar. If you want a sweeter taste, try rice vinegar. Each choice will give your pickled okra a new life. You might want to make a low-sodium version of this recipe. Simply reduce the amount of sea salt. You can also use salt substitutes to keep the taste strong without the sodium. For those who follow a vegan diet, you’re in luck! The base recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just ensure you use plant-based salt substitutes if you choose to adjust salt levels. Get creative by incorporating other vegetables into your jars. Carrots or cauliflower add color and crunch. You can even add some sliced bell peppers for a sweet flavor. If you want to mix in fruits, consider using sliced apples or pears. They add a nice sweetness that contrasts well with the heat. Just remember to balance sweet and savory for the best results. Store your spicy dill pickled okra in a cool, dark place. The ideal temperature is around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps keep the flavor fresh. Try to avoid direct sunlight, as it may affect the taste and color. Pickled okra can last for several months. When kept properly, it can stay good for up to one year. However, for the best taste, enjoy it within six months. You should refrigerate your pickled okra after opening the jar. This keeps it fresh and crunchy longer. Once opened, it can last about 2 to 4 weeks in the fridge. If unopened, you can store the jars in the pantry. They will still taste great for many months. Just make sure they are sealed well before storing. Check for signs of spoilage before eating pickled okra. If the lid is bulging or the jar is leaking, do not eat it. Also, look for any strange smells or colors. If the okra is soft or mushy, that is a warning sign too. Always trust your senses. If something seems off, throw it away safely. How long do I need to wait before eating? I recommend waiting at least one week. This time allows the flavors to blend well. The longer you wait, the better the taste will be. Some prefer to wait two weeks for a richer flavor. Can I reuse the brine for new batches? Reusing brine is possible, but it may lose flavor. Always check for signs of spoilage before using it again. If you plan to reuse, add fresh spices and salt to boost flavor. Health benefits of okra Okra is rich in vitamins and minerals. It provides fiber, which aids digestion. It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. Eating okra may support heart health and lower blood sugar levels. Caloric content per serving A serving of spicy dill pickled okra has about 20 calories. This makes it a low-calorie snack. It is a great option for those watching their calorie intake while still enjoying a flavorful treat. Sourcing fresh okra Look for okra in local farmers' markets or grocery stores. Fresh okra should feel firm and look bright green. If you can, choose pods that are small to medium-sized for the best flavor. Recommended suppliers or markets I suggest checking out your local co-op or specialty grocery store. These places often stock fresh, high-quality okra. You can also find it at some big-chain grocery stores, especially during peak season. In this blog post, we explored how to pickle okra. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about flavor variations and the best storage practices. Pickling okra can add a tasty crunch to your meals. It is rewarding and safe if you follow the guidance provided. Enjoy your pickled okra as snacks or sides, and feel free to experiment with ingredients. Happy pickling!

Spicy Dill Pickled Okra

Discover how to make delicious Spicy Dill Pickled Okra that will tantalize your taste buds! This easy recipe combines fresh okra with bold flavors like garlic, mustard seeds, and dill. Follow our step-by-step guide to create perfect pickles at home and elevate your dishes. Ideal for snacking or as a zesty side, these pickled veggies are sure to impress. Click through for the full recipe and start pickling today!

Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh okra, trimmed

4 cups water

1 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons sea salt

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 cloves garlic, peeled

2 teaspoons mustard seeds

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon dill seeds

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Jars: Sterilize four pint-sized mason jars and their lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Allow them to dry upside down on a clean cloth.

    Boil Ingredients: In a large pot, combine water, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve completely.

      Pack the Okra: In each sterilized jar, divide the fresh okra evenly. Add 1 clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon of dill seeds, and a few black peppercorns to each jar.

        Pour the Brine: Once the brine is boiling, carefully pour it over the okra in each jar, ensuring the okra is fully submerged and leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.

          Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any brine residue. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw the metal bands until they are fingertip-tight.

            Process the Jars: Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes to create a seal. Adjust the time based on your elevation (longer for higher elevations).

              Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean towel or cooling rack. You should hear the lids pop indicating a good seal. Store the pickled okra in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week before consuming for the best flavor.

                Garnish & Serve: When ready to serve, open the jars and garnish with fresh dill sprigs for added flavor and presentation.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 2 weeks (for pickling) | Makes 4 pints

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