Amazing Homemade Pickle Juice Recipe
by Komal Narwani Last Updated – July 09, 2021
Ever woke up in the middle of the night with a Charley horse and wished for an instant remedy? Or desperately searched for a magic potion for your PMS symptoms? Look no further as pickle juice is here to rescue you! Packed with antioxidants, pickle juice is known to be a fantastic cure for cramps, headaches, and dehydration. Why opt for sugar-filled energy drinks when you can make healthy pickle juice at home?
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) filtered water
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar (or rice wine vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) kosher salt (or Himalayan pink salt)
Optional Spice Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) dill
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) black peppercorns
- 1/2 piece jalapeno, seeded and chopped (about 10 g)
- 1 whole garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) red pepper flakes
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture:
- Take a large pot and add the 1 cup filtered water, 1/2 cup white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons salt.
- Heat the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add Spices:
- Add all of the pickling spices to the pot.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the flavors blend into the mixture.
Cool and Strain:
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
- Strain the mixture into a quart jar or bottle using a fine mesh strainer.
Store and Use:
- Your pickle juice is ready to use! Store it in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Variations of Pickle Juice
Sweet and Spicy Pickle Juice
- Replace the regular vinegar with 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar and add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of honey to the mixture. This variation adds a sweet note to the spicy kick of the original recipe.
Herbal Pickle Juice
- Swap out the dill for 1 teaspoon (5 g) of rosemary or thyme. These herbs give the pickle juice a more aromatic and earthy flavor.
Citrus Pickle Juice
- Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon or lime to the mixture. This citrus twist adds a refreshing tang to the pickle juice.
Smoky Pickle Juice
- Include 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) of smoked paprika or a small piece of smoked chili. This variation introduces a smoky flavor that pairs well with barbecued dishes.
Tips for Enjoying Pickle Juice
- Drink it straight from the fridge for a refreshing boost.
- Add a splash to your salad dressing for an extra zing.
- Use it as a marinade for meats and vegetables.
- Mix it into your favorite cocktails for a unique twist.
Notes
- Always shake the container gently before each use to redistribute the herbs and spices.
- For clearer pickle juice, place the spices in a tea ball instead of adding them loose.