Crunchy Cucumber Pickles
Crunchy cucumber pickles offer a tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavor profile, perfect for adding a refreshing crunch to sandwiches, salads, or enjoyed straight from the jar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, vinegar, turmeric, mustard seed, and celery seed in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Drop in sliced cucumbers and sliced onions, and let the mixture come back to a boil.
- Pack the hot cucumber and onion mixture into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, soak the sliced cucumbers and onions in salt for at least 2 hours before cooking. Rinse well to remove excess salt. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. For a more tangy flavor, substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
These crunchy cucumber pickles are perfect as a side dish for barbecues, serving alongside sandwiches, or as a topping for burgers. They pair beautifully with Mom Marshall'S Baked Sweet Potatoes. For an appetizer, serve them on a platter with cheese and crackers for a delightful contrast.
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 will stay fresh for up to a month. To enjoy them cold, simply remove from the fridge and serve right away; no reheating is necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 284 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% 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 vegetables for pickling?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or cauliflower. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to ensure even pickling. Adjust the pickling time based on the vegetable's texture and firmness.
How long do these pickles need to sit before eating?
For the best flavor, let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before consuming. This allows the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the brine. However, they can be enjoyed sooner if you're eager!
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer less sweetness. Start by cutting it in half and taste the mixture before adding more. Keep in mind that the sugar also helps preserve the pickles.
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).