Cucumber Pickles(Need Not To Seal.)
Crisp, tangy cucumber pickles with a sweet and vinegary flavor profile, perfect for snacking or as a condiment, suitable for picnics, gatherings, and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let 1 cup salt and enough water to cover pickles set for 5 days. Drain and wash; put back in jug.
- Put 3 tablespoons alum in water and pour over pickles; let set for 24 hours.
- Drain and wash pickles.
- Put pickles back in jug and cover with vinegar. Let set for 24 hours.
- Drain and put pickles back into jug and sprinkle 2 1/2 pounds sugar over pickles.
- Put lid on jug and let set.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers to ensure crunchiness in your pickles. If you don't have alum, you can substitute with a bit of calcium chloride for a similar crispness. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference; you could also use a sugar substitute if you're looking for lower-calorie options. Remember to rinse the pickles thoroughly after salting to avoid overly salty results.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumber pickles are perfect as a tangy side dish or condiment. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, burgers, or alongside a charcuterie board. For a refreshing twist, serve them with No-Friller-Cornbread for a delightful meal. You can also chop them up and add them to salads for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They can last for several weeks, though their flavor will continue to develop over time. If you're looking to serve them chilled, simply take them out about 15 minutes before serving to enhance their flavor. Do not freeze, as this will affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Pickles(Need Not To Seal.) contains roughly 458 calories, with 3g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1919mg per serving (83% 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 these pickles need to sit before they're ready to eat?
After completing the recipe, allow the pickles to sit for at least 24 hours before tasting. For maximum flavor, consider letting them marinate in the vinegar and sugar mixture for a few days. This will enhance the overall taste and texture, making them even more delicious.
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers are recommended due to their firmness. If you have access to smaller varieties, such as Kirby cucumbers, they work well too. Just ensure they are fresh and free from blemishes for the best results.
Is it possible to make these pickles spicy?
Absolutely! To add a kick to your cucumber pickles, incorporate red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños during the vinegar soaking step. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. This can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness and tartness of 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).