"Aunt Sara'S Pickles"
Sweet and tangy homemade pickles with a crisp texture, enhanced by sugar, celery seed, mustard seed, and alum. Perfect for quick snacking or as a flavorful side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut pickles into chunks or use sliced dills.
- Drain the pickles and place them in a large glass jar or crock.
- Add sugar, celery seed, mustard seed, and powdered alum to the jar.
- Let the pickles make their own juice.
- Refrigerate for a few days, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Transfer to smaller jars for easier handling if desired.
- Enjoy the pickles when they are crisp and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pickle, you can increase the sugar to 5 cups. If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a few sliced jalapeños. Ensure the alum is well incorporated to maintain the pickles' crispiness. Use fresh dill if you want to enhance the dill flavor. Always taste the brine and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles are perfect as a snack or a tangy side dish. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards. For a refreshing drink, serve alongside Spirited Punch or Cherry Cherry Punch for a delightful meal experience. You can also chop them up and add to potato salad or coleslaw for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store your pickles in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Ensure they are submerged in the brine for optimal flavor. To maintain their crunch, avoid freezing pickles. If you have leftovers, transfer them to a clean, airtight container to prevent spoilage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Aunt Sara'S Pickles" contains roughly 453 calories, with 10g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (191% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Can I use other types of pickles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use sliced dills or any other dill pickles you prefer. Just ensure they are firm to maintain the desired crunch. Experimenting with different pickle types can create unique flavor profiles.
How long does it take for the pickles to be ready?
Typically, the pickles are ready to enjoy after 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become, but avoid letting them sit too long to maintain their crispness.
What is powdered alum, and can I substitute it?
Powdered alum helps keep the pickles crisp. If you don't have it, you can omit it, but the pickles may be softer. For a natural alternative, consider using calcium chloride, which is also effective in preserving crunch.
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).