Welcome to the world of easy pickling! If you’re a pickle enthusiast but don’t want to go through the hassle of traditional food preservation methods like canning, these easy refrigerator pickles are the perfect solution. Let’s explore what refrigerator pickles are, how to make them, and some essential tips to ensure they turn out crispy, tangy, and delicious. So, let’s get pickling the easy way!
What Are Refrigerator Pickles?
Refrigerator pickles are a fantastic alternative to traditional canning methods. Unlike canned pickles that require a hot water bath to preserve them, refrigerator pickles are made and stored in the fridge. They are quick, easy, and maintain a delightful crunch, making them a favorite among home cooks and pickle enthusiasts.
The best thing about this easy canning method is you don’t need a ton of tools or space. It’s a great practice even for apartment homesteading!
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Do You Have to Waterbath Refrigerator Pickles?
The beauty of refrigerator pickles lies in their simplicity. Unlike traditional canning, there’s no need for a water bath to seal the jars. Instead, you can skip the complicated canning process altogether and enjoy your pickles much sooner. Just whip up the brine, prepare the cucumbers, and pop them in the refrigerator – it’s that easy!
How Long Do Homemade Refrigerator Pickles Last in the Fridge?
One of the most common questions about refrigerator pickles has to do with their shelf life. Homemade refrigerator pickles can actually last for several weeks in the fridge since the cold temperature helps preserve their taste and texture. However, remember that they won’t last indefinitely like commercially canned pickles, so be sure to label them properly with the date they were made try to consume them within a month for the best quality.
Tools You’ll Need to Make Refrigerator Pickles
In order to make these easy refrigerator pickles, you’ll need just a few things. First of all, you’ll need a medium-sized pot to make your brine — Use a large stock pot if you’re making a big batch of refrigerator pickles.
You’ll also need mason jars to store your pickles in, and it’s also a good idea to have a canning funnel on hand so you can easily pour the hot brine into the jar without spilling.
Here are some of our favorite tools for making refrigerator pickles:
Mirro 12Qt Traditional Vintage Style Black Speckled Enamel on Steel Stock Pot with Lid
Why we love it:
- Made of durable, long-lasting materials
- Lightweight construction
- Heats up fast and evenly
- Vintage design
Paksh Novelty Mason Jars
Why we love it:
- Value pack of 6 jars
- Leakproof and airtight
- High-quality, clear soda-lime glass
- Easy to grip
- Lead-free and food-grade materials
Antuoo Metal Food-Grade Canning Funnel
Why we love it:
- Made from quality, food-grade materials
- Ergonomic handle
- Won’t leak when used for liquids
- Includes both wide mouth and small mouth funnels
- Compact storage
- Dishwasher safe
Picking the Right Cucumber Variety for Refrigerator Pickles
Choosing the right cucumber is essential for perfect refrigerator pickles. For the best results, opt for pickling cucumbers or kirby cucumbers. These varieties are smaller, have fewer seeds, and a thinner skin, which results in a crisper pickle. Regular slicing cucumbers can work too, but pickling cucumbers are the top choice for authentic, tangy dill pickles.
Easy Refrigerator Pickles Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Pickling cucumbers (sliced into spears or coins)
- 2 cups Distilled white vinegar
- 2 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Pickling salt (avoid iodized salt)
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- 4 cloves Fresh garlic (peeled)
- 2 tsp Dill seed
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns (whole)
- Fresh dill springs (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into your preferred shape – spears or coins.
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, pickling salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
- Place garlic cloves, dill seed, and black peppercorns, in the bottom of a clean mason jar.
- Pack the cucumber slices tightly into the jar, leaving some room at the top for the brine. If using fresh dill, tuck a few springs into the jar as well.
- Using a canning funnel, pour the brine over the cucumbers until they are completely submerged.
- Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and give it a gentle shake to distribute the flavors.
- Let the jar cool completely and then pop it in the refrigorator.
- Refrigerate the jar for at least 48 hours before enjoying your homemade refrigerator pickles.
Ready to Get Pickling the Easy Way?
Making easy refrigerator pickles is a simple and rewarding experience. You get to enjoy the satisfaction of pickling without the time-consuming canning process. With the tangy and crunchy results, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try making them earlier! So, next time you have an abundance of cucumbers, embrace the pickling adventure and whip up a batch of these delightful homemade pickles.
FAQs: Easy Refrigerator Pickles
Can I use regular table salt for refrigerator pickles?
While you can use regular table salt, it’s better to use pickling salt or kosher salt without any additives. Iodized salt can cause cloudiness in the brine and may alter the taste.
How long should I wait before trying my refrigerator pickles?
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to wait at least 48 hours before tasting your refrigerator pickles. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop that signature tanginess. The best flavor is achieved after about a week in the fridge!
Can I reuse the brine for another batch of pickles?
Technically you can reuse the brine at least once, but the second batch might not be as flavorful as the first. It’s best to make fresh brine for subsequent batches and use your leftover pickle juice for other delicious recipes.
Can I add other spices or vegetables to the pickling jar?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like red pepper flakes, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, or even sliced onions and carrots to create your own unique pickle blend.
How do I store the opened jar of refrigerator pickles?
Once you’ve opened the jar, make sure to keep it tightly sealed and store it in the refrigerator. The pickles should stay fresh for several weeks after opening.