How To Pickle Garlic In White Vinegar For Cheap And Easy!

How To Pickle Garlic In White Vinegar For Cheap And Easy! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 20 calories per serving. Recipe by The Frugal Chef on YouTube.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min

Cost: $2.15 total, $0.54 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Water (filtered or tap water)
  • 2 cups White Vinegar (distilled, 5% acidity, for pickling)
  • 2 tablespoons Salt (non‑iodized (kosher or sea salt) to prevent discoloration)
  • 30 cloves Garlic Cloves (peeled, fresh; about 2 cups loosely packed)
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Dill (roughly chopped; optional but recommended)
  • 3 pieces Red Chili Peppers (sliced; optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Whole Peppercorns (adds subtle spice; optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Brine

    In a medium saucepan combine 2 cups water, 2 cups white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons non‑iodized salt. Heat gently, stirring until the salt fully dissolves. Do not boil; just warm enough to dissolve.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: warm

  2. Peel the Garlic

    Separate the garlic cloves from the bulb and peel each clove. Place peeled cloves in a large mixing bowl.

    Time: PT10M

  3. Sterilize the Jar

    Wash the glass mason jar and lid with hot, soapy water, then rinse well. For extra safety, submerge the jar in boiling water for 5 minutes or run it through a dishwasher cycle.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Add Aromatics

    Place a handful of fresh dill, sliced red chilies (if using), and 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns at the bottom of the sterilized jar.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Pack the Garlic

    Layer the peeled garlic cloves into the jar, pressing them down gently so they fit tightly but without crushing.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Add the Brine

    Allow the brine to cool to room temperature, then pour it over the garlic until the cloves are completely submerged. Tap the jar lightly to release trapped air bubbles.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: room temperature

  7. Cool and Seal

    Let the jar sit uncovered until the brine reaches room temperature (about 30 minutes). Then seal the jar with its lid.

    Time: PT30M

  8. Refrigerate to Pickle

    Place the sealed jar in the refrigerator. Allow the garlic to pickle for at least two weeks; flavor improves up to four weeks.

    Time: PT0M

    Temperature: 4°C

Nutrition Facts

Calories
20
Protein
0.9 g
Carbohydrates
4 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0.5 g

Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Allergens: Garlic

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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How To Pickle Garlic In White Vinegar For Cheap And Easy!

Recipe by The Frugal Chef

A simple, frugal method for making crunchy, tangy pickled garlic that keeps well in the refrigerator. Using a 1:1 water‑vinegar brine with non‑iodized salt, fresh dill, and optional chilies, this condiment can be sliced into salads, added to sandwiches, or enjoyed straight from the jar.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
51m
Prep
10m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 11m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.15
Total cost
$0.54
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Use non‑iodized salt to prevent green/blue discoloration.
  • Ensure all garlic cloves are fully submerged in the brine.
  • Allow the brine to cool before sealing the jar to avoid pressure buildup.
  • Refrigerate for a minimum of two weeks for proper pickling.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the warm brine carefully to avoid burns.
  • Make sure the jar is thoroughly cleaned to prevent contamination.
  • Discoloration (green or blue) is harmless; it does not indicate spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of pickled garlic in American home cooking?

A

Pickled garlic has long been a staple in American pantries, especially among frugal cooks who wanted to preserve the health benefits of garlic year‑round. It grew popular during the early 20th century when home canning was common, offering a tangy, long‑lasting condiment.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of pickled garlic exist within United States cuisine?

A

In the Northeast, dill and mustard seeds are typical, while Southern versions often add hot peppers and a touch of sugar. West Coast cooks may use apple cider vinegar and add turmeric for color.

cultural
Q

How is pickled garlic traditionally served in American households?

A

It is usually served as a crunchy garnish for salads, mixed into deviled eggs, or eaten straight from the jar as a snack. Some families also slice it thin for sandwich spreads.

cultural
Q

During what occasions or celebrations is pickled garlic commonly enjoyed in American culture?

A

Pickled garlic often appears on holiday tables during Thanksgiving and Christmas as part of a charcuterie board, and it’s a popular addition to summer picnics and backyard barbecues.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional American pickled garlic versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional recipes call for distilled white vinegar, non‑iodized salt, and fresh dill. Substitutes like apple cider vinegar, sea salt, or dried dill can be used, but they slightly alter flavor and may affect the classic pale appearance.

cultural
Q

What other American side dishes pair well with pickled garlic?

A

Pickled garlic complements coleslaw, potato salad, roasted carrots, and grain bowls such as quinoa or farro salads. It also works nicely alongside pickled cucumbers and beets.

cultural
Q

What makes this pickled garlic recipe from The Frugal Chef special compared to other pickling methods?

A

The Frugal Chef emphasizes a simple 1:1 water‑vinegar ratio, uses inexpensive pantry staples, and stresses the use of non‑iodized salt to avoid discoloration, making it both budget‑friendly and visually appealing.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making pickled garlic at home?

A

Common errors include using iodized salt (causes green/blue color), not fully submerging the garlic (risk of spoilage), sealing the jar while the brine is still hot (creates pressure), and insufficient refrigeration time (flavor remains harsh).

technical
Q

Why does this pickled garlic recipe use non‑iodized salt instead of regular table salt?

A

Non‑iodized salt prevents a chemical reaction with the garlic and vinegar that can turn the cloves green or blue. Iodine in regular salt accelerates that reaction, affecting appearance but not safety.

technical
Q

Can I make pickled garlic ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the brine and pack the garlic, then refrigerate for at least two weeks. Keep the sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two months; do not store at room temperature.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Frugal Chef specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel The Frugal Chef specializes in low‑cost, budget‑friendly recipes that use everyday pantry ingredients, with a focus on simple techniques and maximizing flavor while minimizing waste.

channel

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