Here is a very different kind of pickles that always illicit positive comments from guests. Everyone always tries the garlic very tentatively, acts surprised at how good they are, and goes back for more.
Pickled Garlic
3/4 cup distilled white vinegar 2 Tbs. sugar 1/4 tsp. hot chili flakes (or more) 1/4 tsp. black peppercorns 1/4 tsp. cumin seeds (not ground cumin) 1 cup garlic cloves, peeled
Mix all of the above (except for the garlic cloves) and bring to a boil. Add garlic cloves. Bring it back to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Cover and chill at least 24 hours. Best with regular garlic - not elephant garlic.