These fermented dill pickles are crisp and perfectly tangy, made with fresh cucumbers, dill, and a simple salt brine. Naturally fermented for bold flavour, they’re great as a snack, on sandwiches, or alongside your favourite meals.
What is fermentation? Fermentation is a natural process where microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, or fungi break down sugars and other compounds in the food into acids, alcohol, or gases.in the absence of oxygen. This process helps preserve food, improves flavour and texture, and can make it easier for the body to digest.
Fermented Dill Pickles#
These fermented dill pickles are crisp, garlicky, and perfectly tangy, made with fresh cucumbers, dill, garlic, and a simple salt brine.
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Servings: 16 ser
Ingredients#
- 2 lbs pickling cucumbers (4 in / 10 cm)
- 1 Tbsp dill seed OR 2 dill heads OR 3 fresh dill sprigs
- 2 Tbsp canning & pickling salt
- 1/8 cup 5% vinegar
- 4 cups water
Optional Add-ins#
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 fresh hot chili, sliced
- 1 tsp whole mixed pickling spice
Instructions#
Prepare Cucumbers#
- Wash well, scrubbing soil off.
- Trim 1/16 inch off blossom end (discard).
- Leave 1/4 inch stem intact.
Pack the Jar#
- place half the dill (and spices if using) in the bottom of a clean jar.
- Pack cucumbers tightly on their sides.
- Top with remaining dill and spices
Make Brine#
- Whisk salt, vinegar and water until salt dissolves.
- Pour brine over cucumbers.
Weight & Ferment#
- Add fermentation weight to keep cucumbers submerged.
- Leave 1 inch headspace.
- Cover with fermentation lid or loose lid.
Fermentation Time#
- Store in a dark place:21-23 °C (70-75 °F): 3-4 weeks13 -18°C (55-65°F): 5-6 weeks
- Avoid temperatures above 26°C (80°F)
- Check several times per week and remove surface scum.
- If mould develops, discard and start fresh.
Notes#
Nutrition Facts
Fermented Dill Pickles
Serving Size
1 serving
Amount per Serving
Calories
9
% Daily Value*
Fat
0.1
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
0.01
g
0
%
Sodium
889
mg
39
%
Potassium
89
mg
3
%
Carbohydrates
2
g
1
%
Fiber
0.5
g
2
%
Sugar
1
g
1
%
Protein
0.4
g
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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