Sweet Heat Pickles Recipe

Sweet Heat Pickles Recipe

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These Sweet Heat Pickles are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches, or serving as a unique appetizer. The pickles are made with sliced cucumbers, a sweet and tangy brine, and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes and other spices.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups sliced cucumbers (about 1/4 inch thick)
  • 1/2 cup sliced carrots (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion (optional)
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon celery seeds
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumbers, carrots (if using), and red onion (if using).
  2. Combine Brine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, water, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, red pepper flakes, turmeric powder, and ground ginger.
  3. Heat Brine: Bring the brine mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
  4. Add Vegetables: Add the sliced cucumbers, carrots (if using), and red onion (if using) to the hot brine.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cucumbers are slightly softened but still crisp.
  6. Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the pickles cool completely in the brine.
  7. Transfer to Jars: Transfer the pickles and brine to clean jars with airtight lids.
  8. Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips and Notes:

  • Cucumber Variety: Use pickling cucumbers or English cucumbers for the best texture.
  • Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, jalapenos, or cauliflower.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.
  • Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference for sweetness.
  • Storage: Store the pickles in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Canning: For long-term storage, you can can the pickles using a water bath canning method.  

Enjoy these flavorful and versatile Sweet Heat Pickles!

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