4-Day Sweet Gherkins

Prep: 60 min

Sweet gherkins with a tangy, spicy flavor profile, perfect for snacking or serving alongside meals. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade pickles with bold spices.

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Ingredients

  • 7 qt. (about 5 lb.) 1 1/2 to 3-inch cukes
  • 1/2 c. salt (pure)
  • 8 c. sugar
  • 6 c. vinegar
  • 3/4 tsp. turmeric
  • 2 tsp. celery seed
  • 2 tsp. whole mixed spice
  • 3 (1-inch) pieces cinnamon sticks

Instructions

  1. Wash the cukes thoroughly.
  2. Place the cukes in a container and cover with boiling water.
  3. Six to eight hours later, drain the cukes and cover with fresh, boiling water.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra crunch, consider soaking the cucumbers in ice water for an hour after draining them. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar amount by 1/2 cup. Use apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist or try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Always ensure to use pure salt for pickling.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet gherkins make a delightful addition to any charcuterie board and pair beautifully with Norwegian Rulle Polserolled Sausage. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as a tangy topping on burgers. They also complement dishes like Rice And Peas Salad, adding a sweet crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Once prepared, store your sweet gherkins in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can last for several weeks. To enjoy them again, simply serve them cold straight from the fridge, or let them come to room temperature before serving to enhance their flavors.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 4-Day Sweet Gherkins contains roughly 517 calories, with 6g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

517 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.8g 12% DV
Total Fat 0.7g 1% DV
Carbs 102.3g 37% DV
Fiber 6.5g 23% DV
Sugar 83.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1645.9mg 35% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 93.6mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 23.6mg 26% DV
Calcium 292.6mg 23% DV
Iron 6.5mg 36% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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 do sweet gherkins need to sit before they're ready to eat?

The sweet gherkins should sit for at least 4 days to fully develop their flavor. This resting period allows the spices and sugar to penetrate the cucumbers, creating that signature sweet and tangy taste.

Can I use smaller cucumbers for this recipe?

Yes, you can use smaller cucumbers, but make sure they are firm and fresh. Just remember that the pickling time may slightly vary, so keep an eye on them during the soaking process.

What can I do if I find the gherkins too sweet?

If the gherkins turn out too sweet for your taste, you can balance the sweetness by adding a splash of vinegar or even a pinch of salt when serving. This will enhance the overall flavor profile and make them more enjoyable.

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).

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