18 Spicy Pickled Okra Recipes for Canning

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April 12, 2025

Get ready to add a burst of flavor and spice to your pantry with these 18 mouth-watering pickled okra recipes! Okra, also known as lady’s fingers or gumbo, has been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries. When pickled, this delicious vegetable takes on a whole new dimension, offering a tangy, slightly sweet, and intensely flavorful condiment perfect for topping tacos, sandwiches, and salads.

From classic Southern-style recipes to bold and spicy creations, we’ve got you covered with these 18 unique and mouth-watering pickled okra recipes. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or the perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and share them with friends and family.

Classic Southern Spicy Pickled Okra

Classic Southern Spicy Pickled Okra
Classic Southern Spicy Pickled Okra Recipe

Get ready to add a tangy twist to your meals with this beloved Southern side dish! This recipe is a staple for any occasion, from family gatherings to picnics and barbecues.

Ingredients:
• 1 lb okra pods, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the sliced okra into clean glass jars or containers, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they’re completely covered.
5. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Garlic Dill Pickled Okra

Garlic Dill Pickled Okra
Add a tangy twist to your okra dishes with this simple and flavorful recipe for Garlic Dill Pickled Okra.

Ingredients:
• 1 lb fresh or frozen okra pods, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
• 1/2 cup (125ml) water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, garlic, and dill.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add sliced okra and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Transfer pickled okra to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Jalapeño Lime Pickled Okra

Jalapeño Lime Pickled Okra
Add a tangy twist to your snacks with this refreshing recipe that combines the crunch of okra with the zip of jalapeños and lime.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra pods, sliced
– 1/2 cup (125ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (15g) kosher salt
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra, lime juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After the pickling time has elapsed, give the mixture a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Store the pickled okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: None

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Okra

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Okra
Get ready to add a tangy twist to your meals with this addictive sweet and spicy pickled okra recipe! Crunchy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, these pickles are perfect for snacking or adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, salads, and more.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh okra pods
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, white sugar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the okra pods into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pickling liquid) + 24 hours (refrigeration)

Bread and Butter Pickled Okra

Bread and Butter Pickled Okra
This classic Southern side dish adds a tangy twist to the humble okra pod. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods, these pickles are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Bring the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the okra pods into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) headspace.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are fully covered.
5. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)

Enjoy your tangy and sweet bread and butter pickled okra!

Smoky Chipotle Pickled Okra

Smoky Chipotle Pickled Okra
Add a smoky twist to traditional pickled okra with this recipe that combines the natural sweetness of okra with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these spicy and tangy pickles are sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint okra pods
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, smoked paprika, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack okra pods into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the pickling liquid over the okra, leaving about 1/4 inch (6 mm) headspace.
4. Add minced chipotle pepper to the jar.
5. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Curry-Spiced Pickled Okra

Curry-Spiced Pickled Okra
Add a tangy twist to your meals with this flavorful pickling recipe that combines the crunch of okra with the warmth of curry spices. Perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, curry powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack the okra pods into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
4. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes + chilling time

Pickled Okra with Mustard Seeds

Pickled Okra with Mustard Seeds
This recipe adds a tangy twist to traditional pickled okra by incorporating mustard seeds, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb okra pods
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp mustard seeds

Instructions:

1. Trim the okra pods to remove any stems or damaged ends.
2. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, water, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add the trimmed okra pods to the brine mixture. Let it sit for 24 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Rinse the pickled okra with cold running water to remove excess brine.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and toast for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
6. Combine the toasted mustard seeds with the pickled okra. Serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 24 hours (pickling time), 2 minutes (toasting mustard seeds)

Spicy Cajun Pickled Okra

Spicy Cajun Pickled Okra
Add a tangy kick to your meals with this bold and flavorful Spicy Cajun Pickled Okra recipe. Crunchy okra pods are infused with the warmth of cayenne pepper, garlic, and herbs, making them a perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a snack on their own.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh okra pods
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30 ml) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5 ml) salt
– 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp (5 ml) chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra pods and ice cubes to chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic, and parsley.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack okra pods into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/2 inch (1 cm) headspace.
5. Pour the pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal jars and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Pickled Okra with Red Pepper Flakes

Pickled Okra with Red Pepper Flakes
Add a tangy and spicy kick to your meals with this simple recipe for pickled okra. Perfect as a side dish or added to sandwiches, salads, and soups.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– 1/4 cup (60 g) thinly sliced onion

Instructions:

1. Cut the okra into 1-inch pieces and place in a clean glass jar.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pour hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Add sliced onion on top of the okra.
6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus overnight pickling)

Tangy Pickled Okra with Apple Cider Vinegar

Tangy Pickled Okra with Apple Cider Vinegar
This recipe yields a tangy and crunchy pickled okra dish, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, salads, or as a snack on its own. The combination of apple cider vinegar and spices creates a unique and addictive taste experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the okra into 1-inch pieces and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the salt is dissolved.
3. Add the okra to the pickling liquid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours in the refrigerator.
4. After the desired pickling time, strain the okra and discard the liquid. Rinse the okra with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick pickle method that requires no cooking.

Pickled Okra and Carrot Sticks

Pickled Okra and Carrot Sticks
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of pickling with the crunch of fresh carrots, all while showcasing the unique texture of okra. Perfect as a snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra pods
– 2 cups thinly sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add okra pods and carrots to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until okra is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before refrigerating.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Pickled Okra with Turmeric and Ginger

Pickled Okra with Turmeric and Ginger
This recipe adds a warm, aromatic twist to traditional pickled okra by incorporating turmeric and ginger. The result is a tangy, slightly spicy condiment perfect for adding depth to sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint okra pods
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra pods and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the okra to release its natural juices.
2. Rinse the okra pods with cold water, then drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, ginger, turmeric, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pack the okra pods into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal the jars tightly and store in the refrigerator.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time

Pickled Okra and Green Bean Medley

Pickled Okra and Green Bean Medley
Pickled Okra and Green Bean Medley: A tangy and crunchy condiment perfect for snacking or adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra and green beans.
2. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the okra and green beans.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 2 weeks.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering the pickling liquid)

Pickled Okra with Garlic and Black Pepper

Pickled Okra with Garlic and Black Pepper
This tangy pickling recipe adds a burst of flavor to okra, perfect for snacking or using as a side dish. With the pungency of garlic and the warmth of black pepper, this pickled okra is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra and garlic.
2. In a small saucepan, bring the vinegar, water, black pepper, and sugar to a boil over medium heat.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra mixture and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Sweet Pickled Okra with Honey

Sweet Pickled Okra with Honey
This recipe puts a sweet spin on traditional pickled okra, balancing the tanginess of vinegar and spices with the warmth of honey. Perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint okra pods
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp pickling spice blend (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring the vinegar, water, sugar, honey, and pickling spice to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack okra pods into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they’re completely covered.
5. Seal jars and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time

Pickled Okra and Cauliflower Mix

Pickled Okra and Cauliflower Mix
This recipe combines the tangy flavors of pickling with the crunch of okra and cauliflower. Perfect as a side dish or added to sandwiches and salads, this mix is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra pods
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra and cauliflower.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, and coriander seeds.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the okra and cauliflower mixture; stir to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 5 days.
5. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add hot sauce for an extra kick.

Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (depending on the desired level of pickling)

Pickled Okra with Bay Leaves and Coriander

Pickled Okra with Bay Leaves and Coriander
Pickled Okra with Bay Leaves and Coriander: A tangy and aromatic twist on classic pickling, this recipe combines the crunch of okra with the warm flavors of bay leaves and coriander.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound okra pods
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine okra, vinegar, water, bay leaves, coriander seeds, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After 24 hours, discard the bay leaves and coriander seeds.
4. Pack the pickled okra into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
5. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within a week.

Cooking Time: 24 hours

Summary

Get ready to spice up your canning game with these 18 delicious and varied pickled okra recipes! From classic Southern flavors to bold and spicy options, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to add a kick with jalapeño lime, curry-spiced, or smoky chipotle flavorings. Or, try sweet and tangy combinations like apple cider vinegar or honey-infused pickles. Whether you’re looking for a snack, side dish, or topping, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your canning jars and get ready to make some mouth-watering pickled okra!

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