Crisscross Bread And Butter Pickles
Crisp, tangy bread and butter pickles with a sweet and spiced flavor, perfect for snacking or adding a zesty touch to sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and onions; add garlic cloves.
- Mix salt and cover with ice.
- Let stand for 3 hours and then drain.
- Combine remaining ingredients and boil for 5 minutes.
- Add the drained cucumbers, garlic cloves, and salt to the mixture.
- Boil for an additional 3 minutes.
- Pat the mixture into jars and process in a water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the cucumbers and onions sit in the salt and ice mixture for the full 3 hours. You can experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you're out of celery seed, dill seed can be a good substitute. Make sure to use non-iodized salt to ensure the best texture for your pickles.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles are perfect as a tangy side dish with sandwiches, burgers, or BBQ. They also pair beautifully with a Hot Spice Drink or can be used to elevate a cheese platter. You can serve them alongside grilled meats or toss them into salads for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store the bread and butter pickles in a cool, dark place for several months. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. For reheating, simply serve them cold or at room temperature; they don't require cooking. They can enhance various dishes or act as a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisscross Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 1491 calories, with 41g protein, 330g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (330% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (215% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1137mg per serving (49% 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 reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste, but keep in mind that reducing it too much may alter the balance of flavors and preservation. A slight reduction should still yield good results, but try to maintain a minimum of 3 cups for proper pickling.
How long will the pickles last once canned?
If properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, these pickles can last for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming, such as off smells or mold.
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cucumbers and onions are traditional, you can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just ensure they are sliced uniformly for even pickling. Each vegetable will lend its unique flavor to the brine.
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).