the best snack of all time
the best snack of all time 😩 is a easy American Fusion recipe that serves 4. 45 calories per serving. Recipe by Benji Krol on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 17 min
Cost: $3.00 total, $0.75 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Pickled Garlic (drained, whole cloves)
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste; use a gluten‑free brand if needed)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Powder (sweet paprika for mild heat; smoked paprika can be used for extra flavor)
Instructions
Gather Ingredients
Measure out 1 cup of drained pickled garlic, 2 Tbsp sriracha, and 1 tsp sweet paprika.
Time: PT3M
Combine in Bowl
Place the pickled garlic in the mixing bowl, drizzle the sriracha over it, and sprinkle the paprika.
Time: PT2M
Mix Thoroughly
Stir the mixture until every garlic clove is fully coated with the sauce.
Time: PT2M
Transfer to Jar and Seal
Transfer the coated garlic to a clean mason jar, press down gently, and seal tightly.
Time: PT2M
Shake and Rest
Give the sealed jar a good shake for 10 seconds, then let it sit at room temperature for 5‑10 minutes to let flavors meld.
Time: PT5M
Serve
Enjoy the snack straight from the jar or spoon onto crackers, toast, or a fresh salad.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 45
- Protein
- 0.8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 0.5 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Allergens: Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pickled Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves (quick‑pickled in vinegar for 30 min), Roasted garlic cloves
- Instead of Sriracha: Chili garlic sauce, Hot sauce of choice
- Instead of Paprika Powder: Chili powder, Cayenne pepper (use less, very hot)
Equipment Needed
- Mason Jar with Lid
- Mixing Bowl
- Stirring Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring each garlic clove is fully coated with the sriracha‑paprika mixture.
- Sealing the jar tightly to prevent leaks and maintain flavor.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use sweet paprika for a milder flavor; smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note.
- Pat the pickled garlic dry before mixing to prevent a watery sauce.
Troubleshooting
Snack is too spicy.
Add more pickled garlic or a splash of the brine to dilute the heat.
Garlic cloves are not fully coated.
Transfer the mixture back to the bowl, add a little more sriracha, and shake the jar again.
Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks in a sealed jar.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes.
Room temperature: Safe for up to 2 hours; keep refrigerated after opening.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the snack a day ahead; flavors improve after 12‑24 hours.
- Keep the jar refrigerated and shake before each serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of spicy pickled garlic snacks in American fusion cuisine?
Spicy pickled garlic snacks blend traditional pickling techniques from Asian cuisines with the bold heat of American hot sauces. They have become popular as a tangy, bite‑size appetizer at casual gatherings and bar menus across the United States.
What are the traditional regional variations of garlic‑based pickled snacks in Asian cuisine?
In Korean cuisine, garlic is often pickled with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to create kimchi‑style bites. Japanese tsukemono may feature garlic in a mild rice‑vinegar brine, while Chinese pickles sometimes add star anise and soy sauce for depth.
How is the authentic traditional way of serving pickled garlic snacks in Korean street food culture?
Korean street vendors typically serve pickled garlic alongside grilled meats, offering it as a refreshing, palate‑cleansing side. It is presented in small bowls and eaten with a pair of chopsticks.
What occasions or celebrations is a spicy pickled garlic snack traditionally associated with in American party culture?
Spicy pickled garlic snacks are popular at game nights, tailgate parties, and casual get‑togethers where guests enjoy bold, shareable bites that pair well with beer or cocktails.
What other American fusion dishes pair well with this Spicy Pickled Garlic Snack?
It pairs nicely with charcuterie boards, grilled chicken wings, avocado toast, or as a topping for tacos and burrito bowls, adding a tangy heat contrast.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a spicy pickled garlic snack versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include pickled garlic, a fermented hot sauce like sriracha, and chili powder or paprika. Substitutes can be fresh quick‑pickled garlic, chili garlic sauce, or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Spicy Pickled Garlic Snack at home?
Common mistakes include using too much liquid from the pickles, which dilutes the sauce, and not sealing the jar tightly, leading to leaks. Also, over‑shaking can bruise the garlic, making it mushy.
Why does this Spicy Pickled Garlic Snack recipe use paprika instead of regular chili powder?
Paprika provides a milder, sweeter heat that complements the tang of the pickled garlic without overpowering it. It also adds a vibrant red color, making the snack visually appealing.
Can I make Spicy Pickled Garlic Snack ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store the sealed jar in the refrigerator; the flavors will deepen, and the snack stays fresh for up to two weeks.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Spicy Pickled Garlic Snack is ready?
The garlic cloves should be glossy, fully coated in a bright reddish‑orange sauce, and still firm to the bite. There should be no excess liquid pooling at the bottom of the jar.
What does the YouTube channel Benji Krol specialize in?
The YouTube channel Benji Krol focuses on quick, approachable snack and comfort‑food recipes, often featuring bold flavors, simple ingredient lists, and minimal cooking equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Benji Krol's approach to snack recipes differ from other cooking channels?
Benji Krol emphasizes ultra‑fast, no‑cook or minimal‑cook snacks that can be assembled in under 10 minutes, contrasting with many channels that focus on elaborate cooking techniques or full meals.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
