Bread And Butter Pickles
Bread and butter pickles are a sweet and tangy condiment that balance the crispness of cucumbers with the zesty notes of onions and spices. These pickles are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a snack on their own. Ideal for those who love a little crunch and a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice onions and cucumbers.
- Sprinkle salt and alum over cucumbers and onions.
- Let stand for 1 hour.
- Drain in a colander and set aside.
- Make syrup of vinegar, sugar, celery seed, mustard seed, and turmeric in a large pot and bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
- Pour drained cucumbers into the syrup.
- Pour into hot, sterile jars immediately.
- Seal the jars.
- Boil jars in water before filling to ensure they are hot enough to seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, let the cucumbers soak in the salt and alum longer, up to 2 hours. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar by half a cup. To enhance flavor, consider adding a few cloves of garlic or red pepper flakes. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage. This recipe can also be adapted to incorporate other vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Bread and butter pickles make a delightful addition to sandwiches and burgers, adding a tangy crunch. They pair beautifully with fried sweet potato strips or as a side to classic American recipes like fried chicken. For a unique twist, serve them alongside charcuterie boards or in salads, such as Ruth's Jello Salad, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the pickles and consume within a month for the best flavor. If you want to enjoy them later, you can reheat them gently in a saucepan over low heat, but they are best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 408 calories, with 9g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (148% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1217mg per serving (53% 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 do bread and butter pickles need to marinate before eating?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to marinate for at least 24 hours before sampling. This gives the spices time to meld with the cucumbers. However, they can be eaten right after canning, although the taste will improve with time.
Can I use different types of cucumbers?
Yes, while the recipe calls for 6-inch cucumbers, you can use any variety such as pickling cucumbers or even Persian cucumbers. Just be mindful of the size, as larger cucumbers may require additional slicing to achieve the desired thickness.
What can I do if my pickles are too salty?
If you find the pickles too salty after canning, you can rinse them briefly under cold water before serving. Alternatively, you can dilute the brine with a little water, but this may alter the flavor balance. Always taste before serving to ensure they meet your preference.
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).