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Spicy Garlic & Dill Pickled Beans are a zesty and flavorful snack or side dish that combines the crunch of fresh green beans with the tang of vinegar and the heat of red pepper flakes. Perfect for adding a kick to any meal. Below are the detailed ingredients you'll need to create these delicious pickled beans.
Ingredients
- Fresh Green Beans: 1 pound, trimmed and ready for pickling.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled and sliced for an aromatic flavor.
- White Vinegar: 2 cups, the base for the pickling brine.
- Water: 2 cups, to dilute the vinegar for the brine.
- Pickling Salt: 2 tablespoons, to preserve and flavor the beans.
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon, to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- Fresh Dill: 4 sprigs, for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Dill Seeds: 2 teaspoons, to enhance the dill flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 2 teaspoons, for a spicy kick.
- Mustard Seeds: 4 teaspoons, for a hint of tangy spice.
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Sterilize four pint-sized mason jars and their lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Step 2:
- In each jar, evenly distribute the garlic slices, fresh dill sprigs, dill seeds, red pepper flakes, and mustard seeds.
- Step 3:
- In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, pickling salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
- Step 4:
- Pack the trimmed green beans into the jars, standing them upright.
- Step 5:
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the beans in each jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Step 6:
- Use a knife or a thin spatula to remove any air bubbles from the jars. Wipe the rims clean, then secure the lids.
- Step 7:
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
- Step 8:
- Store the pickled beans in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before opening to allow the flavors to develop.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the pickled beans in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before opening to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Once opened, keep the jars refrigerated and consume within a month for the best flavor and texture.
- Pickled beans are a great snack on their own or can be used as a tangy addition to salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.
- If you enjoy spicier pickles, consider adding more red pepper flakes or a slice of fresh jalapeño to each jar.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure your green beans are fresh and crisp for the best texture in your pickled beans.
- If you don't have pickling salt, kosher salt can be used as a substitute. Avoid using iodized salt as it can cause the brine to become cloudy.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices like coriander seeds or bay leaves for a unique flavor twist.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef David Chang: "Pickling is a fantastic way to preserve the vibrant flavors of fresh produce while adding a delicious tangy twist."
- Chef Alton Brown: "Always use non-reactive cookware like stainless steel or glass when making pickles to prevent any unwanted reactions with the vinegar."
- Chef Ina Garten: "Homemade pickles make a great gift. Personalize the jars with a ribbon and a label for a thoughtful homemade present."