Dad'S 14-Day Pickles
A classic and tangy homemade pickle recipe, perfect for preserving cucumbers with bold flavors of salt, alum, and pickling spice that suits those who enjoy traditional fermented foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pack a gallon of whole cucumbers in a jar.
- Make a brine of 1 cup salt and boiling water to cover the cucumbers.
- Add 3 oz. alum and 2 Tbsp. pickling spice to the brine.
- Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in the jar.
- Add vinegar as needed to ensure the cucumbers are covered.
- Seal the jar and let it sit for the desired pickling period, following the 14-day process.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the cucumbers are freshly picked for the best crunch. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of alum or pickling spice. You can substitute kosher salt for regular salt if desired. For a unique twist, consider adding garlic cloves or dill to the brine. Remember to use a non-metallic container to prevent any reaction with the vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
These 14-day pickles make a delightful snack or a crunchy side to any meal. Serve them alongside sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board. They pair beautifully with Porky Sparerib Delight or can elevate a simple picnic spread. Chopped pickles can also add a tangy crunch to salads like Fred Harvey Cole Slaw.
Storage & Reheating
Once pickled, store the jars in a cool, dark place to enhance the flavors. After opening, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, ensuring they stay submerged in the brine. They should last for several months if stored properly. For best taste, consume them within a month after opening and enjoy them chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S 14-Day Pickles contains roughly 442 calories, with 3g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1860mg per serving (81% 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 smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Smaller cucumbers can be used for a more bite-sized snack. Just make sure they are firm and fresh to maintain the crunchiness. Adjust the brine quantity if needed to ensure all cucumbers are submerged properly.
What if I want a sweeter pickle?
To create a sweeter version of these pickles, consider adding sugar to the brine. Start with 1/2 cup of sugar and adjust according to your taste preference. This will give you a sweet and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the acidity of the vinegar.
How do I know when the pickles are ready?
The pickles are typically ready after the 14-day pickling period. You can taste them at intervals to determine if they have reached your desired flavor. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor becomes, so feel free to adjust the pickling time to your liking.
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).