Can you put alcohol in pickles?

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that it is indeed possible to put alcohol in pickles to create boozy pickles. In fact, it can be a fun and delicious way to add an extra kick to your pickles or even use them in cocktails. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make your own boozy pickles:

1. Choose your pickles: Start by selecting the type of pickles you want to use as your base. You can go for classic dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or any other variety that you enjoy. Make sure to get pickles that are in spear form rather than slices or whole pickles.

2. Select your alcohol: The next step is to choose the alcohol you want to infuse your pickles with. You have a variety of options here, depending on your taste preferences. Some popular choices include whiskey, vodka, gin, tequila, or even flavored liqueurs like dill or cucumber vodka. Consider the flavor profile you want to achieve and choose accordingly.

3. Prepare the jar: Open your jar of pickle spears and remove any excess brine. You can drain the pickles, but it's not necessary to dry them completely. Leave some brine in the jar to mix with the alcohol.

4. Add the alcohol: Pour your desired amount of alcohol directly into the jar with the pickles. The amount of alcohol you add will depend on your personal preference and how strong you want the boozy pickles to be. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. Remember, the alcohol will dilute the brine, so don't overdo it.

5. Mix and refrigerate: Screw the lid back on tightly and give the jar a good shake to mix the alcohol with the brine and coat the pickles evenly. Place the jar in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight, or ideally for about 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Enjoy your boozy pickles: After the pickles have had time to infuse with the alcohol, they are ready to be enjoyed. You can eat them straight out of the jar as a boozy snack, or use them in creative ways like garnishing cocktails or adding a unique twist to your favorite dishes. The possibilities are endless!

When it comes to choosing the best whiskey for boozy pickles (or making cocktails), it's all about personal preference. Different whiskeys offer different flavor profiles, so consider what you like and what would complement the pickles well. Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow bourbon, a peaty and smoky Scotch, or a spicy rye whiskey, there's no wrong choice. Experimentation is key, so feel free to try out different types of whiskey to find your perfect match.