4 Day Pickles
Tangy, sweet, and spicy pickles with a complex flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy homemade preserved vegetables with bold spices and crunch. Suitable for pickle lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a glass gallon jar with whole, clean cucumbers.
- Dissolve 2 cups salt in warm water; pour over the cucumbers.
- Let it stand for 24 hours. Pour off the brine.
- Dissolve 3/4 cup alum in hot water.
- Pour the alum solution over the cucumbers.
- Let it stand for 24 hours.
- Pour off the brine.
- Put the cucumbers in clear water for 24 hours.
- Boil 2 cups vinegar with 1 cup water and 1/2 cup cloves for 20 minutes.
- Tie the cloves in a bag while boiling.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumbers.
- Let it stand for 24 hours.
- Pour off the vinegar.
- Rinse the cucumbers.
- Put a layer of sugar in the jar.
- Slice the cucumbers into one layer, then add sugar, then the cucumbers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the crunch of your pickles, consider using pickling cucumbers, which are firmer than regular cucumbers. For a touch of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the vinegar mixture. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, feel free to adjust the sugar layer to your taste. Always ensure your jars and utensils are sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a delightful addition to any barbecue or picnic spread, pairing well with sandwiches and burgers, especially alongside the Hamburger Cookie. For a fresh twist, serve with cheese platters or as a tangy side to grilled meats. They also complement a charcuterie board beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you have leftovers, ensure they are submerged in the brine to prevent them from drying out. Reheat the pickles gently in a pan if you prefer them warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 4 Day Pickles contains roughly 334 calories, with 7g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (146% of the Daily Value), iron (79% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2077mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will these pickles last?
If stored properly in a sealed jar, these pickles can last for about 2 months in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it's best to refrigerate them and consume within a few weeks for optimal taste.
Can I use different spices in the vinegar mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices such as dill, mustard seeds, or even garlic for added flavor. Just remember to keep the basic vinegar and water ratio consistent.
What can I serve these pickles with?
These pickles are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. They are particularly delicious with sandwiches, burgers, or as a side with fried foods. You can also enjoy them as a crunchy snack on their own.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).