Betty'S Icicle Pickles
Betty's Icicle Pickles are crisp, sweet and tangy cucumber pickles infused with spices, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches or serving alongside hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix lime and 2 gallons of water; soak cucumbers in solution for 24 hours.
- Drain and rinse cucumbers well.
- Soak cucumbers in plain water for 2 to 3 hours; drain.
- Make a syrup of sugar, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed; bring to a boil.
- Pour the hot syrup over the cucumbers.
- Let stand for 12 hours.
- Add pickling spice, a few cloves, cinnamon sticks, and salt to the cucumbers.
- Boil the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Pack the pickles in jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, make sure to soak the cucumbers thoroughly to achieve the desired crunchiness. If you can't find pickling spice, you can use a combination of mustard seeds, dill seeds, and black peppercorns instead. Additionally, adjust the sugar level based on your sweetness preference; some may prefer a less sweet pickle. Remember that a longer soak in syrup can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these icicle pickles as a tangy side dish alongside sandwiches or charcuterie boards. They are also great on burgers or as a garnish for cocktails. Pair them with dishes like Baked Fish In Foil for a refreshing contrast. For an exciting snack, try them with cheese and crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store your icicle pickles in a cool, dark place, and once opened, keep them in the refrigerator. They can last for several months when properly sealed. To enjoy the pickles at their best, consume them within a few weeks after opening. If you have leftover syrup, consider using it in salad dressings for added flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Icicle Pickles contains roughly 1136 calories, with 27g protein, 272g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (461% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2756mg per serving (120% 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 a different type of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, while apple cider vinegar is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute it with white vinegar or rice vinegar. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste of your pickles. Experimenting with different vinegars can lead to interesting variations.
How can I adjust the spice levels in my pickles?
To increase the spice level, add more pickling spice or include additional whole spices like peppercorns or red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of pickling spice or omit it entirely. Taste the mixture before boiling to find your perfect balance.
What should I do if I want my pickles to be sweeter?
If you desire sweeter icicle pickles, increase the sugar content gradually while preparing the syrup. Start with an extra cup of sugar and taste the syrup before pouring it over the cucumbers. Remember, the pickles will absorb some sweetness over time, so adjust accordingly.
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).