Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers (about 4 medium cucumbers)
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon dill seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
Feel free to substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor or add a few sprigs of fresh dill for an added herbal note.
Instructions
- Start by preparing your cucumbers and onions. Slice them thinly and set aside. Mama Lou always emphasized the importance of uniform slices to ensure even pickling.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Add the mustard seeds, dill seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and garlic to the vinegar mixture. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Carefully place the sliced cucumbers and onions into clean jars. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the vegetables, making sure they are fully submerged. This step always reminds me of the precision Mama Lou would use when filling each jar, ensuring every slice was perfectly coated.
- Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before sealing them with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying to allow the flavors to develop fully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International