Fern'S No Trouble Pickles
Fern's No Trouble Pickles are crisp, tangy cucumbers with a sweet and sour flavor profile. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade preserves, they offer a satisfying crunch and balanced taste. Perfect as a snack, side, or gift, these pickles bring a nostalgic homemade touch to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice medium-sized cucumbers lengthwise and pack them cold into quart jars.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of alum to each jar.
- Dissolve sugar in vinegar and water; bring to a boil rapidly.
- Pour the hot sugar-vinegar mixture over the cucumbers in the jars and seal them.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes or until the cucumbers begin to change color.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding spices like dill or mustard seeds to the jars before sealing. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the sugar to 5 cups without sacrificing texture. Using fresh, firm cucumbers will yield the best results. If you have leftover brine, it can be reused for a second batch of pickles, ensuring to boil it again before use.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles are perfect as a crunchy side dish or condiment, pairing beautifully with Kielbasa With Sauerkraut And Potatoes. Serve them alongside sandwiches or burgers for a delightful contrast. They're also great in picnic baskets or as a snack with cheese and crackers. For a creative twist, chop them into a salad or serve with grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for at least a month to allow the flavors to develop. Once opened, keep pickles in the refrigerator where they can last for several weeks. If you notice any off smells or mold, discard immediately. For best taste, enjoy them within three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fern'S No Trouble Pickles contains roughly 34 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 types of cucumbers for this recipe?
While the recipe is optimized for medium-sized cucumbers, you can use smaller pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture or larger ones if that's what you have. Just ensure they are fresh and firm for the best results.
How long do these pickles need to be processed in the water bath?
The pickles should be processed in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes. This ensures they seal correctly and are safe for long-term storage. Adjust time slightly for altitude if necessary.
Can I substitute the vinegar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. However, ensure it is at least 5% acidity to safely pickle the cucumbers. The taste will be slightly sweeter and fruitier.
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).