1. Choose Your Cucumbers
Sourcing the Best: Kirby or Persian cucumbers for maximum crunch and maximum flavor.
Size Matters: Small to medium cucumbers, about 3 to 4 inches in length.
2. Slicing Styles: To Slice or Not to Slice?
Spears: Cut lengthwise into quarters. Perfect for snacking straight out of the jar.
Chips / Coins: Slice into 1/4-inch round thick coins. Great for burgers, sandwiches, or quick snacking. (Slicing into coins absorbs the brine fastest!)
Whole / Halves: Best for smaller Kirby cucumbers. Halving or leaving them whole keeps them extra crunchy, but give them 36 to 48 hours in the fridge to fully absorb the brine.
3. Fresh Flavor Enhancements
While our spice blends are packed with premium herbs and spices, adding fresh kitchen ingredients takes your jar to the next level:
- Fresh Dill Sprigs: Tucking 2–3 fresh dill fronds into the jar amplifies that classic herbaceous aroma.
- Smashed Garlic Cloves: Gently crush 1–2 peeled garlic cloves to infuse a warm, savory kick.
- Fresh Jalapeño or Habanero Slices: Toss in a few fresh pepper rings if you want to turn up the heat.
- Citrus Zest or Grape Leaves: A strip of fresh lemon peel or a clean grape leaf adds natural tannins that help keep pickles crisp even longer!
HOW IT WORKS
-
Choose Your Veggies
Wash your veggies and slice them into chips, spears, or leave them whole. Pack them tightly into a clean 16 oz jar with your fresh dill or garlic. -
Add Your Spices & Brine
Add 1 packet of Hawkins Pickling Spice directly into the jar over your prepped veggies, or mix the spice packet with ½ cup water and ½ cup vinegar in a bowl or measuring cup first before pouring it over top. -
Chill & Enjoy!
Place your jar in the refrigerator. Let the flavors marry for 24 hours. Once chilled, open and enjoy your perfectly crisp, custom pickles!