Cucumber Cubes
Crunchy, sweet, and tangy cucumber cubes preserved with spices, perfect as a refreshing snack or condiment for summer meals and picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cucumber cubes and salt in a gallon jar or crock; pour 1/2 gallon of boiling water over cucumbers and salt.
- Let stand for 1 week, stirring every day with a wooden or plastic spoon.
- Drain and add alum and the other 1/2 gallon of boiling water.
- Let stand for 24 hours.
- Drain and make syrup by boiling sugar, vinegar, mustard seed, and pickling spice.
- Place mustard seed and spices in a cloth or spice ball.
- Pour the hot syrup over the cucumbers in the gallon jar.
- Reheat the syrup every day for 4 days and pour it back over the cucumber cubes.
- On the fifth day, pack cucumbers into pint jars.
- Heat the syrup again and pour over the cubes in pint jars.
- Seal the jars and process in boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your cucumber cubes, consider adding fresh dill or garlic to the pickling syrup. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar to suit your palate. For a vegan version, ensure all ingredients are plant-based, and experiment with different types of vinegar for unique flavor profiles. Using a mix of cucumbers can also add varying textures.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumber cubes pair beautifully with sandwiches or grilled meats, making them a perfect addition to a summer picnic. Serve alongside Aunt Reva's Apple Raisin Cake for a delightful contrast of flavors. They also complement a cheese platter or can be added to salads for a refreshing crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, and they can last for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks. To enjoy leftovers, simply serve them cold or at room temperature as a crunchy snack or side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Cubes contains roughly 442 calories, with 12g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 26g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the cucumber cubes need to pickle?
The cucumber cubes should sit for a total of about 5 days, with the initial soaking in salt for one week, followed by repeated syrup additions for four days. This ensures they absorb all the flavors and achieve the desired texture.
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different varieties of cucumbers, such as Kirby or English cucumbers, to alter the texture and taste. Just be sure to use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best results.
Is it necessary to seal the jars in a boiling water bath?
Yes, sealing the jars in a boiling water bath is crucial for preservation, ensuring that the cucumber cubes stay safe to eat and can last longer on your shelf. It also helps create a vacuum seal to keep the flavors intact.
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).