We absolutely love diving into timeless recipes like our Million Dollar Pickle, a Southern gem that’s won hearts for its sweet tangy crunch. Originating from clever home canning traditions it’s become a pantry staple that feels like buried treasure in every jar.
This easy-to-make delight packs bold flavors from simple ingredients turning ordinary cucumbers into something extraordinary. We’re excited to share how you can whip up a batch that’ll elevate your meals and impress your friends.
Ingredients
In our Million Dollar Pickle recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver the signature sweet and tangy flavors rooted in Southern traditions. These components are listed in the order we prepare and use them, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Cucumbers: 4 medium cucumbers, washed thoroughly and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds to serve as the crisp base.
- Onions: 1 large yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced to add a sharp, aromatic contrast.
- Bell peppers: 2 green bell peppers, seeded and diced into small pieces for a subtle crunch and color.
- White vinegar: 2 cups distilled white vinegar, ensuring it’s at least 5% acidity for the perfect tangy brine.
- Granulated sugar: 4 cups granulated sugar, which we dissolve fully to balance the acidity and create that irresistible sweetness.
- Pickling spices: 2 tablespoons of a pickling spice mix (including mustard seeds, coriander, and cloves), toasted lightly for enhanced flavor depth.
- Salt: 1/4 cup kosher salt, used for drawing out moisture from the vegetables before brining.
- Celery seeds: 1 teaspoon celery seeds, added for an earthy note that elevates the overall profile.
These ingredients combine to transform everyday produce into our bold, Million Dollar Pickle that impresses with its vibrant taste and texture.
Instructions
We guide you through the essential steps to craft our Million Dollar Pickle with ease and precision ensuring a sweet and tangy delight that elevates any meal. Let’s transform those fresh ingredients into a flavorful preserve that bursts with vibrant taste and texture.
Prepare the Ingredients
First we wash 4 medium cucumbers under cold running water to remove any dirt then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds for that signature crunch. Next we peel and finely chop 1 large yellow onion into even pieces while we core and dice 2 green bell peppers into small uniform cubes to blend seamlessly into the mix. We measure out 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and sprinkle it over the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl tossing gently to coat ensuring even distribution for drawing out excess moisture and enhancing the pickle’s crispness.
Make the Pickle Brine
In a medium saucepan we combine 2 cups of distilled white vinegar 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar 2 tablespoons of pickling spices and 1 teaspoon of celery seeds stirring them together over medium heat. We bring the mixture to a gentle boil stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves creating a aromatic brine that infuses the pickles with its sweet and tangy essence. Once dissolved we reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious blend that promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
Cook and Process the Pickles
We add the prepared cucumbers onion and bell peppers to the hot brine in the saucepan stirring to coat the vegetables evenly then bring the mixture back to a boil and cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables turn vibrant and slightly tender while retaining their satisfying crunch. For processing we carefully pack the hot pickle mixture into sterilized pint-sized jars leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top then wipe the rims clean and secure the lids tightly. Finally we process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal them ensuring long-term preservation and that fresh Million Dollar Pickle flavor ready to impress at your next gathering.
Required Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transition from preparing and canning our Million Dollar Pickle, we rely on essential tools that ensure safety, efficiency, and professional results. Having the right equipment not only streamlines the process but also helps achieve that perfect sweet and tangy flavor profile in every jar.
Below, we outline the key tools you’ll need, organized by category for easy reference. We’ve bolded main tools and italicized important notes to highlight their roles in the recipe.
Basic Prep Tools
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip board for safely slicing cucumbers, chopping onions, and dicing bell peppers. Opt for a large one to handle multiple vegetables at once and minimize mess.
- Sharp knife: A chef’s knife or utility knife for precise cuts. Keep it sharpened to avoid accidents and ensure even slices that absorb the brine effectively.
Measuring and Mixing Tools
- Measuring cups and spoons: Set of dry and liquid measures for accurately portioning ingredients like granulated sugar, distilled white vinegar, and kosher salt. Precision here prevents imbalances in the sweet-tangy flavors that define our Million Dollar Pickle.
- Large mixing bowl: For combining prepared vegetables before adding to the brine. Choose glass or stainless steel to avoid reactions with acidic vinegar.
Cooking and Canning Tools
- Large stockpot: For boiling the brine mixture and processing jars in a water bath. A 12-quart size or larger works best for batches, ensuring even heat distribution for safe preservation.
- Canning funnel: A wide-mouthed funnel for packing vegetables into jars without spills. This tool is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and preventing contamination during the canning process.
- Mason jars and lids: Standard 1-pint or 1-quart jars with two-piece lids for storing the final product. Sterilize them beforehand to extend shelf life and lock in that vibrant, flavorful preserve.
- Jar lifter and lid magnet: Tongs or a lifter for safely handling hot jars, plus a magnet for retrieving lids from hot water. These ensure safe removal from the boiling water bath, reducing burn risks and ensuring a proper seal.
With these tools in hand, we can confidently move from ingredient prep to the final canning steps, creating jars of our signature Million Dollar Pickle that are ready to enhance any meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
After processing your jars of Million Dollar Pickle, we recommend following these guidelines to preserve the sweet and tangy flavors while ensuring safety and longevity. This step extends the recipe’s appeal as a pantry staple, allowing you to enjoy homemade pickles whenever you need a quick, flavorful addition to meals.
Proper Storage for Sealed Jars
To maintain the vibrant taste and crunch of your Million Dollar Pickle, store sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or basement. We advise keeping the area at 50-70°F (10-21°C) to prevent spoilage. Always check that jars have sealed properly by pressing the center of the lid; it should not flex or pop.
- Label jars clearly: Use waterproof labels with the date of canning to track freshness.
- Avoid extreme conditions: Do not expose jars to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture, as these can compromise the seal and flavor.
For a quick reference on shelf life, refer to the table below:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sealed jars in pantry | Up to 1 year | Inspect for bulges or off odors before use. |
| Sealed jars in fridge | Up to 2 years | Ideal for extended storage and flavor retention. |
Storage for Opened Jars
Once you open a jar of Million Dollar Pickle, transfer it to the refrigerator immediately to halt bacterial growth and preserve the tangy crunch. We suggest consuming within 2 weeks for optimal taste, as exposure to air can dull the flavors over time.
- Refrigerate promptly: Store the jar upright and ensure the lid is tightly sealed to minimize oxidation.
- Monitor for signs of spoilage: Look for changes in color, texture, or smell; discard if anything seems off.
Make-Ahead Strategies
Million Dollar Pickle lends itself perfectly to make-ahead preparation, letting you build a stockpile for future use. We often prepare the brine and chop vegetables a day in advance to streamline the process.
- Prep ingredients early: Slice cucumbers, onions, and peppers up to 24 hours ahead, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Batch cooking tips: Double the recipe and process extra jars for gifting or seasonal events, ensuring you have jars ready for holidays or gatherings.
- Freezer option for non-canned batches: If you’re not canning, freeze the pickled vegetables in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving to retain texture.
By incorporating these storage and make-ahead tips, we help you maximize the shelf life and convenience of your Million Dollar Pickle, making it a reliable favorite in your kitchen arsenal.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our Million Dollar Pickle recipe to bring a slice of Southern tradition into your kitchen. It’s more than just pickles – it’s about creating lasting flavors that elevate everyday meals.
Let’s dive in and make this a cherished staple in our homes. You’ll love how simple tweaks lead to impressive results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Million Dollar Pickle?
Million Dollar Pickle is a classic Southern recipe featuring sweet and tangy cucumbers, rooted in home canning traditions. It’s a simple pantry staple made from fresh veggies and spices, offering bold flavors that elevate meals and impress guests with its easy preparation.
What ingredients are needed for Million Dollar Pickle?
Key ingredients include medium cucumbers, a large yellow onion, green bell peppers, distilled white vinegar, granulated sugar, pickling spices, kosher salt, and celery seeds. Use fresh, high-quality components for the best sweet and tangy results, ensuring optimal flavor and texture.
How do I make Million Dollar Pickle?
Start by preparing ingredients: chop cucumbers, onions, and peppers. Make a brine with vinegar, sugar, spices, salt, and celery seeds, then cook the veggies in it. Pack into sterilized jars, process in a boiling water bath for preservation, and let cool. This yields delicious, homemade pickles ready for storage.
How should I store Million Dollar Pickle?
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Refrigerate after opening and use within two weeks. Always check seals before storing and label jars for easy tracking. Proper storage maintains the pickles’ sweet and tangy flavors for maximum enjoyment.
Can I make Million Dollar Pickle ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the brine and chop vegetables in advance for quick assembly. Batch cook for gifting or freezing non-canned portions. This make-ahead approach allows flavors to develop, making it convenient for meals or events while extending shelf life up to a year when canned properly.