Grandma Oma’s Southern-Style Pickled Okra: A Zesty Refrigerator Pickle Recipe

Grandma Oma’s Pickled Okra

Pickled okra is easy to make with this grandma-tested recipe and will turn your ho-hum cheese boards and relish trays into something special.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 24 servings

Why You’ll Love Pickled Okra

Discover how simple ingredients transform into crunchy, tangy okra pickles that shine on any relish tray or charcuterie board. This Southern-style deli snack is bursting with flavor, from garlic and dill to a touch of red pepper flakes for heat.

• Quick prep: 10 minutes hands-on time
• No canning needed: Refrigerator pickles
• Versatile: Perfect for cheese boards, burgers, and more
• Low-calorie: Only 10 kcal per serving

Ingredients for Pickled Okra

• 1 ½ pounds fresh okra, stems trimmed
• 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons pickling salt or kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 4 sprigs fresh dill

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pickled Okra

1. Stir up a brine by combining the vinegar, water, and pickling salt (plus sugar if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a rolling boil, then remove from heat.
2. In each sterilized pint jar, pack okra upright, dividing garlic, dill, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes between jars.
3. Carefully pour the hot brine over the okra, leaving ½-inch headspace. Tap jars gently to dislodge air bubbles.
4. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, then seal with lids and bands. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours (preferably 2–3 days for peak flavor) before serving. Keeps up to 1 month in the fridge.

Tips for Perfect Pickled Okra

• Select firm pods: Smaller okra stay crisp and vibrant.
• Adjust the heat: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier bite.
• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of coriander seeds or a garlic clove for extra aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 10 kcal | 2 g carbs | 1 g fiber | 1 g sugar | 532 mg sodium | 0 g fat | 0 mg cholesterol | 1 g protein

Serving Suggestions for Pickled Okra

Serve these tangy okra pickles alongside fried chicken, on a seafood boil tray, or as a crunchy snack straight from the jar. They’re also delicious chopped into potato salad or deviled eggs for a zesty twist.

Enjoy your homemade pickled okra as a zesty snack or a standout condiment!