Condiment|Preserve | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Sour Dill Pickle

Cucumis sativus (fermented) Allergen-Free
Sour Dill Pickle

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cucurbitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Eastern European|North American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cucumber

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Cucumbers preserved in a brine of vinegar, salt, water, and dill, often through fermentation, yielding a distinctly sour and savory flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSour, Tangy, Salty, Umami (from fermentation), Dill
TextureCrisp, Crunchy, Firm
AromaPungent, Dill, Vinegar, Garlic
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium spear (35g)
Calories11 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0.03 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.7 g
Total Carbohydrate2.3 g
Dietary Fiber1.2 g
Total Sugars1.0 g
Calcium18 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium120 mg

Chef’s Secret

For an extra layer of flavor in sauces or dressings, use a tablespoon of the pickle brine; it adds acidity and umami.

Substitutions

Best Match

Capers

1:1

Provides a similar briny, salty, and tangy burst of flavor, especially when minced.

Green Olives

1:1

Offers a salty, briny, umami taste and a firm texture, though less tangy.

Pickled Okra

1:1

Good for a similar crisp texture and tangy flavor, but with an okra-specific taste.

Gherkins (Cornichons)

1:1

Smaller, tarter version of a pickle, perfect for direct substitution in most dishes.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, crisp pickles in refrigerated sections for best quality and probiotics (if desired).

Flavor Pairings

Sandwiches burgers charcuterie potato salad tuna salad fried chicken.

Recipes Using Sour Dill Pickle

Meat Lunch 15 Minutes Or Less North American

A Real Maine Italian

Unlock the mystery of the "Maine Italian" sandwich! This iconic New England creation isn't Italian in origin, but its delicious combination of savory meats, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing has made it a beloved local favorite. Amato's, the self-proclaimed "home of the real Maine Italian," uses ham as the base, but you can easily customize it with roast beef, turkey, or your preferred protein. This easy recipe guides you to make an authentic Maine Italian at home in minutes!

See Complete Recipe