old fashioned dill pickle recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best old fashioned dill pickle recipe

I’m so excited to share this old fashioned dill pickle recipe with you. It’s a family favorite that’s been passed down for generations. I love how simple and easy it is to make, and the best part is that you can customize it to your taste by adding or subtracting ingredients. The dill pickling process is a bit time-consuming, but trust me, it’s worth it.

The end result is a deliciously tangy and crunchy pickle that’s perfect for snacking, using as a topping for burgers or sandwiches, or as a side dish for your next family gathering. This recipe comes from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It’s an old-fashioned recipe that’s been around since the early 1900s, and it’s still just as popular today. The key to making great pickles is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to let them sit for a good amount of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

I like to use a combination of granulated sugar, salt, and spices to give my pickles a unique flavor. One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it in large quantities and store them in the fridge for up to six months. They’re also perfect for gift-giving – just package them in a decorative jar and add a ribbon or bow for a thoughtful present.

Another reason I love this recipe is that it’s so easy to make. Simply slice up some cucumbers, combine them with your chosen seasonings, and let them sit in the brine for several days. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they’ll be. I’ve tried many different pickle recipes over the years, but this one remains my favorite.

There’s something special about biting into a crunchy pickle that’s been made with love and care. This old fashioned dill pickle recipe has been around since the early 1900s – and yet it remains one of the most popular recipes out there today. If you’re looking for a fun project to do with your kids or grandkids, making pickles is a great choice. They can help with everything from slicing up the cucumbers to stirring up the brine.

I’ve had many people ask me if these pickles are healthy – and my answer is yes! With no added preservatives or artificial flavorings, these pickles are a great choice for anyone looking for a healthier snack option.

Old Fashioned Dill Pickles

4.5 from 1001 votes

These old fashioned dill pickles are crisp, tangy, and full of classic dill flavor. Made with fresh cucumbers and a simple brine, they are perfect for canning or refrigerator storage.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins plus 24 hours refrigeration
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 15 kcal per serving

🥘Ingredients

For the Pickles

2 pounds pickling cucumbers, washed and sliced into spears or rounds
4 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
2 teaspoons mustard seeds
4 fresh dill heads or 4 tablespoons dill seeds
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Brine

2 cups water
2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
2 tablespoons pickling salt
1 tablespoon sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into spears or rounds as desired.
2Peel and halve the garlic cloves.
Set aside.
3In each clean jar, divide the garlic, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill heads or seeds, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes if using.
4Pack the cucumber slices tightly into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace at the top.
5In a large saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, pickling salt, and sugar.
6Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
7Remove from heat.
8Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in each jar, covering them completely while leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
9Use a chopstick or knife to remove any air bubbles.
10Wipe the jar rims clean and seal with lids.
11Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours.
12Then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating.
13For longer storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, then cool and store in a cool, dark place.

🔧Equipment

Large saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board
2 quart-sized glass jars with lids
Funnel (optional)
Canning pot (if processing)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 15 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For best results, use pickling cucumbers and fresh dill. The pickles will continue to develop flavor over the next few days. If canning, ensure jars are sterilized and processed according to safe canning guidelines.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Dill Pickles Works

This old fashioned dill pickle recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is reliable, simple, and always a hit with family and friends. I love that I can make a big batch at the start of summer and have them ready for every cookout, potluck, or lazy afternoon snack.

The crisp, tangy pickles pair perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just eaten straight from the jar. For serving, I like to pull out a jar about fifteen minutes before eating so they come to room temperature, which brings out the flavor more.

They also work great chopped up in potato salad or as a garnish for bloody marys. If you have leftover brine, do not throw it out.

You can reuse it to pickle other vegetables like carrots or green beans. This recipe is truly a gift that keeps on giving, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Dill Pickles

Q: What type of cucumbers should I use?

For this old fashioned dill pickle recipe, you’ll want to use either slicing or pickling cucumbers – they’re specifically bred for their small size and crunchy texture.

Q: Can I adjust the amount of sugar?

Yes! If you prefer your pickles less sweet or more sweet – simply adjust the amount of granulated sugar accordingly.

Q: How long do I need to let them sit?

The longer you let these pickles sit in their brine – the more flavorful they’ll be!

Q: Can I add other ingredients?

You bet! Feel free to add any other spices or herbs you like – garlic cloves work particularly well.

Q: Do I have to use fresh dill?

Nope! While fresh dill gives these pickles an amazing flavor – dried dill weed will still work beautifully.

Q: How do I store them?

To keep your pickles fresh – simply store them in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

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