This easy refrigerator pickled okra is a crunchy and tangy treat! You’ll enjoy the bright flavors from vinegar, garlic, and spices without any fuss.
It’s great as a snack, or you can toss it in salads for extra crunch. I love how quick it is to prepare—just mix and refrigerate. Perfect for sharing and impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Okra: Fresh okra is key for this recipe. Look for firm, bright green pods with no blemishes. If you can’t find okra, try pickling green beans, cucumbers, or even carrots as alternatives.
Vinegar: White vinegar gives a clean, sharp flavor, but you can substitute apple cider vinegar for a fruitier taste. Red wine vinegar can also add a nice twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the brine’s flavor. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it, but I find it adds a lovely aroma and taste to the pickles.
Dill: Dill seeds create a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, fresh dill brings a fresh taste. You could also use thyme or oregano as a different herb option.
How Do I Ensure My Okra Stays Crunchy?
To keep your pickled okra crispy, there are a couple of tips to follow:
- Use fresh okra, as older ones can get mushy. Look for bright green, firm pods.
- Don’t overcook the brine. Boiling it for just long enough to dissolve salt and sugar is enough.
- Leave enough headspace in the jars—about 1/2 inch—so the okra can be packed tightly without being crushed.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly crunchy pickled okra every time! Enjoy your pickles as a zesty snack or a fun addition to meals.
Easy Refrigerator Pickled Okra
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh okra, washed and trimmed (stay whole, do not cut)
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon dill seeds or 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 dried red chili pepper or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and simple refrigerator pickled okra recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time. You’ll need to let the okra sit in the fridge for at least 48 hours to achieve the best flavor, but they can be kept for up to 4 weeks. So, it’s a great make-ahead snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sterilizing Your Jars:
Start by preparing your quart-sized mason jars. You can sterilize them by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes or running them through the dishwasher. This helps keep your pickles safe and fresh!
2. Making the Pickling Brine:
In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, kosher salt, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring it until the salt and sugar completely dissolve. Once dissolved, remove it from heat.
3. Packing the Jars:
In each mason jar, add one peeled garlic clove, a quarter teaspoon of black peppercorns, a quarter teaspoon of dill seeds (or a couple of tablespoons of fresh dill), and the dried red chili pepper (or red pepper flakes) if you want a spicy touch.
4. Filling with Okra:
Now, tightly pack the fresh okra into each jar, standing them upright with the stem ends up. Be sure to leave about half an inch of space at the top of the jars.
5. Pouring the Brine:
Carefully pour the hot vinegar brine over the okra until they’re completely submerged. Tap the jars gently to release any trapped air bubbles, ensuring the okra is fully covered.
6. Cooling and Storing:
Let the jars cool to room temperature. Once cool, seal them with the lids and pop them into the refrigerator.
7. Patience is Key:
Allow the okra to pick up all the delicious flavors in the brine for at least 48 hours before digging in. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! Your pickled okra will stay good for up to four weeks, so enjoy them as a snack, side, or salad topping whenever you crave that tangy crunch!
Enjoy your crunchy, tangy refrigerator pickled okra!
Can I Use Frozen Okra for This Recipe?
While fresh okra is usually recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen okra if that’s all you have. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before pickling.
How Long Does It Take for Pickled Okra to Reach Full Flavor?
For optimal flavor, let the pickled okra sit in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before tasting. The longer you allow them to pickle, the more flavorful they’ll become! They keep well for up to 4 weeks.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red chili pepper or reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra spice, add more of either to suit your taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pickled Okra?
Store your pickled okra in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They should stay fresh for up to 4 weeks. Just make sure the okra is fully submerged in the brine to maintain their crunch and flavor!
