These sweet and spicy pineapple jalapeño pickles are a tasty treat! They combine juicy pineapple with a kick from jalapeños, creating a vibrant flavor mix.
Perfect for topping burgers or adding to charcuterie boards! I love how they bring a fun twist to snacks. Just a little jar can make any dish pop with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for a juicy, sweet flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but make sure it’s in juice, not syrup, to avoid extra sweetness.
Jalapeños: Adjust the number based on your heat preference! If you need a milder option, use banana peppers instead. For more heat, you could try serrano peppers.
Vinegar: White vinegar gives a sharp taste, but you can swap it with apple cider vinegar for a more fruity flavor. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the pickle’s overall taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the acidity. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, honey or agave syrup can be used, though they may add a distinct flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Sterilize a Jar for Pickling?
Sterilizing your jar is crucial to keep your pickles safe and fresh. It’s simple and ensures you avoid unwanted bacteria.
- Start by washing the jar in hot, soapy water and rinsing well.
- Place the jar in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes to kill harmful germs.
- Remove it carefully (use tongs!) and let it air dry on a clean towel.
Making sure your jar is clean helps your pickles last longer!
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Pickles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickles:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks
- 3-4 fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced into rings (remove seeds for less heat)
For the Pickling Brine:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus let the pickles marinate in the fridge for at least 24 hours before enjoying. This means you can whip them up quickly and then let them develop their flavors overnight. They can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sterilizing the Jar:
Start by preparing a clean glass jar (about 1 pint size). Sterilize it by boiling it in a pot of water for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove it with tongs, and let it air dry on a clean towel.
2. Making the Pickling Brine:
In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, kosher salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and sliced garlic. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Keep stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
3. Packing the Jar:
While the brine is heating, pack the fresh pineapple chunks and jalapeño slices tightly into your sterilized jar. If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!
4. Adding the Brine:
Once the brine is ready and boiling, carefully pour it over the pineapple and jalapeños in the jar. Make sure that everything is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cool and Refrigerate:
Let the jar cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, tighten the lid securely and pop it into the refrigerator.
6. Marinating Time:
To really enhance the flavors, let the pickles marinate in the fridge for at least 24 hours. The longer they sit, the tastier they’ll become!
7. Enjoy Your Pickles!
After marinating, these sweet and spicy pineapple jalapeño pickles are ready to enjoy! Use them as a delightful topping on burgers, tacos, or add them to a cheese platter. Store any leftovers in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks.
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Pickles
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but opt for pineapple in juice rather than syrup to avoid added sweetness. Drain the juice and consider reducing the sugar in the recipe slightly to balance the flavors.
How Spicy Are These Pickles?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference! Removing the seeds from the jalapeños will reduce the heat. You can also add more or fewer jalapeños or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pickles?
Store leftover pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can keep for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they are always submerged in the brine to maintain freshness!
Can I Make These Pickles Ahead of Time for a Party?
Absolutely! These pickles taste even better after a few days of marinating. Make them up to a week in advance for a party, and they’ll be bursting with flavor by the time you serve them!
