Why the Dilly Beans Is Great For Burning Fat
Dilly beans aren’t just a tasty snack; they can also be a fantastic ally in your weight loss journey. Packed with fiber, they help me feel full longer, curbing those pesky cravings.
Plus, the low-calorie count means I can indulge without guilt. The zingy flavors from garlic and dill make them a delightful addition to my meals, making healthy eating enjoyable.
I love adding them to salads or munching on them straight from the jar. By incorporating dilly beans into my diet, I’m not just snacking; I’m actively supporting my goals to burn fat and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Ingredients of Dilly Beans
When it comes to making dilly beans, having the right ingredients is key to capturing that perfect zingy flavor. Plus, it’s a fun project that makes your kitchen smell amazing and gives you a tasty treat to enjoy later.
So, let’s gather everything we need before we plunge into the actual pickling process.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of dilly beans:
- 2 lbs green beans
- 4 cups white vinegar
- 4 cups water
- 5 tablespoons pickling salt
- 5 sprigs fresh dill
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (divided)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons dill seeds (divided)
- 15 black peppercorns (divided)
Now that we’ve our ingredients lined up, let’s talk about a couple of things.
First off, make sure your green beans are fresh and crisp. Nobody wants soggy beans, right?
And while you’re at it, feel free to get creative. If you like things spicy, you can amp up the crushed red pepper flakes. Or, if dill isn’t your favorite, consider trying some other herbs.
Just remember, this is your creation, so make it delicious in a way that works for your taste buds. Happy pickling!
How to Make Dilly Beans
Making dilly beans is a delightful adventure, and trust me, it’s not as challenging as it sounds. First off, you want to start with 2 lbs of fresh green beans. Trim those little beauties so they fit snugly in the jars—you’re aiming for them to stand up on end, like a little army of green soldiers ready for pickling action. Make sure to leave about 1 inch of headspace at the top of the jar, because we don’t want any bean casualties when it comes to sealing later on.
Next up, let’s talk about the brine. In a large saucepan, mix 4 cups of white vinegar, 4 cups of water, and 5 tablespoons of pickling salt. Bring that mixture to a rolling boil and keep stirring until the salt dissolves completely. It’s like a science experiment, but instead of making a mess in your kitchen, you’re creating something delicious.
While your brine is simmering, grab your sterilized jars—boiling them for 10 minutes will do the trick. Now it’s time to add some personality to those jars. For each pint, toss in 1 sprig of fresh dill, 1 garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon of dill seeds, and 3 black peppercorns. You can already smell the magic, can’t you?
Once you’ve packed the jars with the trimmed beans—again, leaving that precious headspace—ladle in the steaming hot brine until it reaches ½ inch from the top. Don’t forget to run a chopstick or a thin utensil around the edges to chase away any air bubbles. Wipe the rims clean, pop on the lids, and screw the bands on just tight enough; we don’t want them so tight that they throw a tantrum during processing.
Now, process those jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. After that, let them sit undisturbed for at least 12 hours. This part is essential—don’t rush it. Just think of it as a little waiting game while the jars work their sealing magic.
And then, the moment of truth: check the seals. If the lid doesn’t budge when you press it, you’ve done it! You’ve created your very own dilly beans.
Dilly Beans Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to adapt the classic dilly beans recipe for a low-carb lifestyle, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
First, consider substituting the white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor twist. I often use sea salt instead of pickling salt, and it works just fine.
For added crunch without carbs, try adding sliced radishes or cauliflower florets to the jars. You can even experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano instead of dill.
These tweaks keep the spirit of dilly beans alive while fitting perfectly into my low-carb diet. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Dilly Beans
Finding the right dishes to complement dilly beans can elevate your meal experience.
I love serving them alongside grilled meats, like chicken or steak, as the tangy flavor cuts through the richness. They also shine on a charcuterie board, paired with cheeses and cured meats.
For a lighter option, toss them into a salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and feta. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add them to a sandwich for an extra crunch.
Dilly beans can even be enjoyed as a snack on their own, making them a versatile addition to any meal or gathering.
Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying dilly beans, I often look for ways to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor. One trick I use is to reduce the amount of pickling salt slightly, as it can add to the sodium content.
I also skip any added sugars in the brine, relying on the savory goodness of garlic and dill instead. Instead of using oil in recipes that accompany dilly beans, I opt for vinegar-based dressings or squeeze fresh lemon juice.
Finally, I serve them as a crunchy snack or appetizer, keeping my portions in check while still enjoying that zesty taste!