Moonshine Pickles Recipe

Moonshine Pickles have always been more than just a recipe to me; they’re a piece of family history, a touch of nostalgia that brings me back to the warm summer evenings spent on my grandmother’s porch. I remember the buzz of the crickets as we sat together, sipping sweet tea and sharing stories. My grandmother would pull out her jar of homemade pickle juice moonshine, their brine glistening in the light.

That unique tang, paired with the sharp bite of moonshine, was a flavor I never forgot. It’s a tradition that’s been passed down, and now, I’m excited to share it with you. If you enjoy the crisp, refreshing kick of pickled flavors, you might also love trying this Gyu-Kaku Spicy Cucumber for another taste-packed snack with a bold twist.

What Makes Moonshine Pickles So Special?

Moonshine pickles are more than just a tangy snack; they’re an experience that blends the traditional art of pickling with the bold kick of moonshine. What makes them so special is the unexpected depth of flavor—the crispy cucumbers, the savory spices, and of course, the moonshine that elevates it all.

The alcohol doesn’t overpower; instead, it infuses the pickles with a subtle warmth and complexity. It’s a fun twist on a classic that always leaves you craving more. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, pickle moonshine is sure to spark joy at your next gathering!

Ingredients for Moonshine Pickles Recipe

To make the perfect Pickle Moonshine, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create that signature zesty punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pint dill pickles (16 oz jar)
• Up to 1 cup unflavored moonshine
• ¼ teaspoon Tabasco or Cholula hot sauce
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Reserved pickle juice (from the jar)

Equipment and Tools

• Mason Jars
• Large Pot
• Strainer
• Funnel
• Cutting Board & Knife
• Measuring Cups & Spoons

Cooking Time and Serving People

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for making the brine)
• Chill Time: 2 hours (or 48-72 hours for best flavor)
• Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

How to Make Moonshine Pickles Recipe

Making Pickle Moonshine is simple and fun! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this flavorful treat:

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles: Begin by straining the brine from a 16-ounce jar of dill pickles and setting it aside. You’ll be using this brine later to balance out the flavors. Make sure to keep the pickles in their original jar for easy preparation.

Step 2: Add the Moonshine: Pour up to 1 cup of unflavored moonshine into the pickle jar. Fill the jar to within 1-1/2 inches of the top. The moonshine will infuse the pickles with a subtle, boozy flavor that takes them to the next level.

Step 3: Spice It Up: Next, add ¼ teaspoon of Tabasco or Cholula hot sauce into the jar. This will give your pickles a spicy, tangy bite. Then, add ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to kick up the heat a bit more. The combination of hot sauce and pepper flakes will give your pickles a savory, zesty punch.

Step 4: Add the Reserved Pickle Juice: Pour the reserved pickle juice from earlier back into the jar, filling it to the top. The brine acts as the perfect base for the pickles, blending the heat from the sauce and the alcohol from the moonshine, while still maintaining the classic pickle flavor.

Step 5: Seal and Shake: tightly cap the jar, ensuring it’s sealed well. Shake the jar vigorously once or twice to make sure everything is well mixed and the moonshine and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Refrigerate: Place the jar in the refrigerator and let the pickles marinate for at least 2 hours. If you can wait, letting them chill for 24-48 hours will give them a deeper, more intense flavor as the moonshine and spices infuse into the cucumbers.

Creative Serving Ideas for Moonshine Pickles Recipe

Once your Pickle Juice Moonshine is ready, the fun doesn’t stop there! Here are some creative ways to serve them:

1. Moonshine Pickle Snack: Serve them straight from the jar as a tangy, boozy snack. Perfect for when you’re craving something savory, these pickles will satisfy your taste buds in no time.

2. Moonshine Pickles with BBQ: The bold flavor of pickle moonshine pairs perfectly with grilled meats. Serve them alongside your favorite BBQ for a flavorful contrast to the smoky meats. For a hearty main dish that matches beautifully with this tangy treat, try this Mission BBQ Meatloaf for a smoky, savory pairing.

3. Pickle Moonshine Drinks: Use the pickle juice moonshine as a base for a fun cocktail! Just add a little more moonshine, some ice, and a splash of soda for a refreshing, tangy drink.

4. Moonshine Pickle Sandwiches: Add some moonshine pickles to your sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor. They’re perfect in a turkey, ham, or veggie sandwich to balance out rich ingredients. For an even bigger flavor kick, pair them with this Ike’s Dirty Sauce for a creamy, tangy spread that takes any sandwich to the next level.

5. Garnish for Bloody Mary’s: For a spicy twist, use your moonshine pickles as a garnish for Bloody Marys. They add a delicious, tangy bite to the drink while keeping the party vibe alive.

Cookupp Community Tips for Moonshine Pickles Recipe

The Cookupp community has some amazing tips to elevate your Pickle Juice Moonshine game! Here are a few to help you create the perfect jar of pickles:

1. Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding mustard seeds, coriander, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique flavor. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your pickles a fresh, earthy twist.

2. Customize the Moonshine: Feel free to try different flavored moonshines, like apple pie or peach, to give your pickles a fruity kick. The moonshine flavor will shine through, adding a fun, unexpected twist to your pickles.

3. Make Them Spicy: For those who like a little heat, toss in a few fresh or dried chilies or red pepper flakes. The spiciness will balance beautifully with the tangy brine and give your moonshine pickles an extra punch.

4. Use Small Cucumbers: Opt for smaller, firmer cucumbers, like Kirby cucumbers, as they tend to hold up better during the pickling process. This ensures your pickles stay crisp and crunchy, even after sitting in the brine.

5. Let Them Sit Longer: While you can enjoy them after just 2 hours, the longer they sit, the better they taste! Give them at least 72 hours for a deeper flavor. The pickles will become more infused with the moonshine and spices over time.

Different Variations of Pickle Juice Moonshine Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the classic Pickle Moonshine recipe, why not shake things up and try some fun variations? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Spicy Moonshine Pickles: Add extra heat with a few slices of jalapeños, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. The spicy kick will complement the tangy brine and the warmth of the moonshine.

2. Sweet & Sour Moonshine Pickles: For a sweet twist, add a little sugar or honey to the brine. This sweet-and-sour combo gives your pickles a delightful balance that’s sure to please both sweet and savory lovers.

3. Garlic Dill Moonshine Pickles: If you love garlic, throw in extra cloves along with fresh dill. This classic flavor combo is simple but incredibly tasty and pairs perfectly with the moonshine.

4. Herb-Infused Moonshine Pickles: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the brine for a fragrant, herbal twist. These fresh flavors will blend beautifully with the tangy brine and moonshine.

5. Citrus Moonshine Pickles: Add a burst of citrus by squeezing in some fresh lemon or orange juice. The bright citrusy notes will give your pickles a refreshing twist, perfect for summer!

How to Store Leftover Moonshine Pickles Recipe

If you’ve got some leftover Pickle Juice Moonshine, don’t worry! Here’s how to store them to keep them fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigeration: Store your pickles in the mason jars with the lid tightly sealed. Keep them in the fridge, and they’ll last for up to 2-3 weeks. The cold temperature helps preserve the pickles and keeps them crisp.
• Seal Tightly: Ensure that the jars are properly sealed to avoid any air from getting in, which can cause the pickles to spoil faster. If you’ve used vinegar-based brine, the acidity helps prevent bacterial growth, extending the shelf life.
• Freezing (Optional): While pickles are best stored in the fridge, you can freeze them if needed. However, freezing may change their texture slightly, so this method is only recommended for long-term storage. To freeze, place the pickles in a freezer-safe container, but remember they may soften after thawing.
• Use the Brine: Don’t throw away the leftover pickle juice! You can use it to create a tangy pickle moonshine drink or as a marinade for meats, veggies, or even in salad dressings.

FAQs about Pickle Moonshine Recipe

Here are some common questions and helpful answers to guide you through the process of making and enjoying your Pickle Juice Moonshine:

What is Moonshine?

Moonshine is a high-proof, unaged distilled spirit, traditionally made from corn mash, often produced illicitly. For moonshine pickles, use legally purchased, food-grade moonshine (80-100 proof) with a neutral flavor to enhance the pickles without overpowering them.

Can I use homemade pickles instead of store-bought ones?

Yes, homemade pickles are ideal for Pickle Moonshine as you can control the brine’s flavor and cucumber freshness. Use firm pickling cucumbers and a vinegar-based brine with dill and spices, then infuse with moonshine for a custom, vibrant taste.

How long do the pickles need to soak in the moonshine?

Soak pickles in moonshine for 2-7 days in the fridge, depending on desired intensity. For a mild boozy flavor, 48 hours is enough; for a stronger kick, aim for 5-7 days, shaking the jar daily to blend flavors.

What type of moonshine should I use?

Opt for a clear, neutral-flavored moonshine (80-90 proof) to let the pickle’s tang shine. Avoid heavily flavored varieties unless experimenting with specific profiles, like apple pie moonshine for a sweet twist.

Can I make spicy moonshine pickles?

Absolutely! Add sliced jalapeños, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the moonshine brine. Infuse for 3-5 days in the fridge, tasting periodically to adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I reuse the moonshine after the pickles are gone?

Yes, the moonshine can be reused to infuse another batch of pickles or other veggies like green beans. Strain it to remove debris, and note that it may carry a slight pickle flavor, so pair it with complementary ingredients.

How do you make moonshine pickles at home?

Drain a jar of homemade or store-bought dill pickles, reserving 1/4 cup brine. Add 1/2 cup moonshine, the reserved brine, and optional spices (e.g., garlic, dill seeds, or chili flakes) to the jar. Seal, shake, and refrigerate for 2-7 days, shaking daily. For fresh pickles, use cucumbers, a vinegar-water brine, and moonshine, then let them sit for at least a week.

Is there alcohol in moonshine pickles?

Yes, Pickle Moonshine contains alcohol from the moonshine infusion, though the exact amount varies based on soaking time and dilution with brine. They’re not suitable for those avoiding alcohol, like pregnant women or children.

Can I reuse the moonshine?

You can reuse the moonshine for another batch of pickles or to infuse foods like carrots or onions. Filter it through a fine mesh to remove solids, and adjust with fresh brine or spices if the flavor weakens.

What is the 321 rule for pickles?

The 3-2-1 rule for pickles refers to a simple brine ratio: 3 parts water, 2 parts vinegar, and 1 part salt (by volume). For moonshine pickles, you can adapt this by replacing part of the water with moonshine (e.g., 2 parts water, 1 part moonshine, 2 parts vinegar, 1 part salt) for a boozy twist, then adjust seasonings and infuse for 5-7 days.

Conclusion

Pickle juice moonshine is a fun, flavorful twist on classic pickles, combining tangy crunch with a kick of moonshine. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, they’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or garnish for drinks. Customize them with your favorite spices or moonshine flavors to make them your own. Get creative, enjoy the bold flavors, and share the fun with family and friends!

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