Best Bread And Butter Pickles
Craving a tangy, crunchy accompaniment that pairs perfectly with sandwiches, fried foods, or as a snack? These classic Bread and Butter Pickles offer a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of spice, making them a delightful addition to any meal or picnic. Their crisp texture and balanced sweetness appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gently stir salt into thinly sliced cucumbers. Cover with ice cubes; let stand 2 to 3 hours.
- Add more ice if it melts. Drain the cucumbers and add sliced onions.
- Combine vinegar, sugar, celery seed, and mustard seed in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Boil the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Pack the cucumbers and onions immediately into hot sterilized jars.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the packed jars.
- Process in boiling water bath for 30 minutes.
- Remove jars from canner and let cool. Store and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers and slice them evenly to ensure uniform pickling. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of ground ginger to the pickling liquid. If you run out of mustard seed, whole black peppercorns can be a great substitute. Remember to sterilize your jars properly to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
These bread and butter pickles make a delicious condiment for sandwiches, especially pulled pork or burgers. They also pair wonderfully with cheese plates or charcuterie, adding a sweet and tangy contrast. Try them as a side to grilled meats or in salads, or use as a crunchy topping for dishes like Tired Mama Cake for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator and consume within a month. The flavors will develop over time, enhancing the taste. Enjoy them cold, or let them come to room temperature before serving, as this can help bring out their full flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 610 calories, with 9g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% 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
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while slicing cucumbers are typically used, you can also try pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture. Just ensure they are fresh and firm, as they provide the best results in preserving.
How do I know when my pickles are ready to eat?
Although you can eat them right after preparing, it's best to wait at least 24 hours for the flavors to meld. However, for optimal taste, let them sit for a week or two before enjoying to allow the spices to infuse fully.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that it balances the acidity of the vinegar. If you want to try a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute that can withstand boiling, but adjust based on personal taste preferences.
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).