Claussen Style Pickles Recipe: Crunchy, Tangy, and Delicious
If you’ve ever enjoyed the crisp, tangy bite of Claussen Pickles from the store, you know just how irresistible they are. But what if you could make them right at home? Well, the good news is, you can! This homemade Claussen-style pickle recipe will show you how to get that perfect crunch and savory flavor, without all the added preservatives. Whether you’re a pickle lover or just looking to make your own crunchy snack, this recipe is super easy and yields delicious results.
Ingredients
To make these tangy, crunchy pickles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh cucumbers | 4-5 medium-sized |
| Fresh dill sprigs | 2-3 sprigs |
| Garlic cloves (crushed) | 4-5 cloves |
| White vinegar | 1 ½ cups |
| Water | 1 ½ cups |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Black peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon (optional for a spicy kick) |
| Bay leaves | 1-2 leaves |
Instructions
1. Prepare the cucumbers
Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers. Cut off the ends and slice them into spears or rounds, depending on your preference. If you like the traditional long pickle spears, slice them lengthwise into 4-6 pieces.
2. Sterilize your jars
To ensure your pickles stay fresh, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes. Once they’re sterilized, remove them and let them dry completely.
3. Make the brine
In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from the heat.
4. Pack the jars
While the brine is simmering, pack the sliced cucumbers into your sterilized jars. Add garlic cloves, dill sprigs, and bay leaves as you go. Feel free to add a little extra dill for a more intense flavor.
5. Pour the brine into the jars
Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in the jars, making sure they’re fully submerged. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar. If there are any air bubbles, gently tap the jar to release them.
6. Seal the jars
Once your cucumbers are packed and the brine is poured over them, seal the jars tightly with the lids. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating them.
7. Let them pickle
For the best flavor, refrigerate the pickles for at least 24-48 hours before eating. The longer you let them sit, the more flavorful they will become. These pickles will last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Recipe Notes
- Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best texture. Pickling cucumbers are ideal because they’re thinner-skinned and hold up better during the pickling process.
- Spice it up: If you prefer spicy pickles, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a few sliced jalapeños to the jar.
- Garlic: You can adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste, adding more for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Herb options: If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill. You can also experiment with adding other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Time and Servings
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes (for the brine)
- Total time: 20 minutes (not including the pickling time)
- Servings: About 4-5 servings (depending on jar size)
Storage
Once your pickles are ready, store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks if kept in an airtight jar. Be sure to check them for any signs of spoilage like mold or an off-smell. If you’re making a large batch and want to store them for longer, consider using a canning method, but for the best flavor and crunch, these quick pickles are best enjoyed within a few weeks.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 20 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 1g |
[cal_calc]
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- Crunchiness: For extra crunch, you can add a small piece of fresh grape leaves to the jar. This helps maintain the firmness of the cucumbers.
- Flavor: The longer you let the pickles sit, the more intense the flavor will be. For the best flavor, try to wait at least 2-3 days before eating.
- Lid tip: When you first seal the jars, you may notice a bit of air escaping. This is normal as the pickles begin to ferment. Just make sure the jars stay tightly sealed after the initial release of air.
How to Serve
Claussen-style pickles are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a snack, alongside sandwiches, burgers, or even in a charcuterie board. They also make an excellent addition to a cheese platter or a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues. You can even chop them up and add them to potato salad, coleslaw, or tuna salad for an extra tangy kick.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Sterilized jars
- Saucepan for brine
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing spoon
- Tongs (for handling the hot jars)
Health Benefits of Claussen Style Pickles
Not only are these pickles delicious, but they also offer some health benefits:
- Probiotics: If you let the pickles ferment for a bit, they can become a source of healthy probiotics, which support digestive health.
- Low-calorie snack: Pickles are naturally low in calories, making them a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
- Rich in antioxidants: The spices used in pickling, especially mustard seeds, offer antioxidant properties that help fight inflammation.
FAQs
1. Can I make these pickles without vinegar?
While vinegar is key to the tangy flavor of these pickles, you can use a more mild alternative like lemon juice if you prefer a less acidic taste.
2. How long do homemade pickles need to sit before they’re ready?
The pickles need to sit for at least 24-48 hours in the refrigerator before they are ready to eat. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
3. Can I reuse the brine for a new batch?
It’s best to make fresh brine for each batch of pickles, as the brine will lose its strength and flavor after the first use.
4. How can I make these pickles spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, or even slice up a few hot peppers like jalapeños or banana peppers and include them in the jar for a spicy kick.
5. Can I use a different type of cucumber for this recipe?
While regular cucumbers can be used, pickling cucumbers are ideal due to their firmer texture and thinner skin. They hold up better during the pickling process.
Final Thoughts
Making Claussen-style pickles at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of delicious, tangy pickles that are perfect for snacking, serving with meals, or even gifting to friends and family. The crunch, the tang, and the satisfying flavor of homemade pickles are truly unbeatable. So, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the fresh, homemade taste of pickles just like the ones you love from the store!
