Christine'S Pickles
Christine's Pickles are flavorful, tangy preserved cucumbers with dill, garlic, and peppers, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches or as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pack clean cucumbers into jars with a sprig of dill, a slice of onion, a wedge of green pepper, hot pepper, several buds of garlic, and grape leaves.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of alum into each jar.
- Mix the water, vinegar, and salt well to make the brine.
- Pour the brine over the pickles in the jars.
- Process the jars in a water bath until the pickles start to turn color.
- Ensure the jars are hot as they seal better.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunchiness, consider using pickling cucumbers, which are specifically designed for canning. If you're out of alum, a small pinch of baking soda can be a temporary substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Always ensure your jars are sterilized for the best preservation. Feel free to adjust the types and amounts of peppers based on your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic accompaniment to sandwiches or burgers, enhancing your meal with tangy flavor. They can also be served alongside cheese and charcuterie boards, providing a refreshing contrast. For a unique twist, try pairing them with dishes like Beef Fondue or serve alongside your favorite salads, like Bunny Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks. If you want to enjoy them warmed, briefly heat them in a saucepan on low, but avoid boiling to maintain flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christine'S Pickles contains roughly 439 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this pickle recipe?
Absolutely! Other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or cauliflower can be added for variety. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes as the cucumbers for even pickling. Adjust the brine as needed to ensure all ingredients are submerged.
How long do I need to wait before eating the pickles?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit for at least 2-4 weeks before opening. This gives the spices and vinegar time to infuse the cucumbers. However, you can taste them earlier, but they will be less flavorful.
What if my jars didn’t seal properly?
If your jars don’t seal, don’t panic! You can either refrigerate the unsealed jars and consume them within a few weeks or reprocess them in a water bath to ensure a proper seal. Just make sure to check the rims for any cracks or debris before reprocessing.
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).