Elsie'S Sweet Pickles
Elsie’s Sweet Pickles are crisp, sweet, and tangy, featuring a blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Perfect for relish trays or as a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split or cut the cucumbers into rings. Soak in brine made of 1 pint salt to 1 gallon water for 3 days. Drain and soak in fresh water for 3 days, changing the water each day.
- Put the pickles in a solution of 1 gallon water, 1/2 cup vinegar, and alum; simmer until hot through, about 15 to 20 minutes; drain.
- Place the pickles in jars. Boil 1 quart vinegar with 1 oz. celery seed and 1 oz. stick cinnamon for 3 minutes.
- Pour the spiced vinegar over the pickles and seal the jars. The pickles will be ready to use in 10 days.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the crunchiness of your pickles, consider adding a few ice cubes to the soaking water during the brining process. If you're out of alum, you can substitute it with a bit of baking soda, but use it sparingly. Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best flavor and texture. For a twist, you could add some crushed garlic cloves to the spiced vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet pickles make a delightful addition to charcuterie boards or as a tangy side with fried chicken. They pair beautifully with Mock Potato Salad and add a sweet contrast to savory dishes. For a unique twist, chop them up and mix them into your favorite tuna salad for extra flavor. Enjoy them as a snack or a condiment alongside sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of pickles in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the pickles refrigerated, where they can last for several months. If you find the pickles have lost some crunch over time, try serving them with burgers or sandwiches to add zest to your meal. Always use clean utensils to prevent spoilage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elsie'S Sweet Pickles contains roughly 631 calories, with 15g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (183% of the Daily Value), calcium (121% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1954mg per serving (85% 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 the sweet pickles need to be stored before they are ready to eat?
The pickles will be ready to enjoy after about 10 days of storage once sealed in jars. This allows the flavors to meld and develop. However, if you can wait a bit longer, the taste will improve even more over time, making them an excellent option for future gatherings.
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while the recipe typically calls for standard pickling cucumbers, you can experiment with other varieties like Kirby cucumbers. Just ensure they are firm and fresh for the best results. Each type may bring a different texture and taste, so feel free to explore!
What should I do if my pickles are too sweet?
If your pickles turn out sweeter than expected, you can balance the flavor by adding a little extra vinegar to the brine next time or pairing them with a tangy cheese on a platter. A slice of sharp cheddar alongside these pickles can create a wonderful flavor contrast.
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).