Four Day Pickles

Prep: 60 min Cuisine: American

Crisp, tangy pickles with a hint of turmeric and warm spices, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, salads, or enjoyed straight from the jar.

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Ingredients

  • 5 qt. or 7 lb. cucumbers
  • 8 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 2 teaspoons whole pickling spice
  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 6 cups vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons celery seed
  • 8 sticks cinnamon

Instructions

  1. First day: In the morning, wash and cut up cucumbers; place in a large container and cover with boiling water.
  2. That afternoon, drain and cover with fresh boiling water.
  3. Second day: In the morning, drain and cover with fresh boiling water.
  4. That afternoon, drain and add 1/2 cup salt; cover with fresh boiling water.

Tips & Substitutions

When preparing Four Day Pickles, ensure your cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best crunch. You can substitute white sugar with honey or agave for a healthier alternative. If you prefer a spicier pickle, consider adding red pepper flakes or crushed garlic to the marinade. Make sure to use non-iodized salt for optimal brining.

Serving Suggestions

Four Day Pickles make a perfect snack on their own or as a tangy side dish. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, especially a classic deli sub or even with Crock-Pot Roast Beef Dinner. For a refreshing summer dish, serve alongside grilled meats or salads. They also make an excellent topping for burgers.

Storage & Reheating

Once prepared, store the pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a month if kept chilled. For best flavor, consume within two weeks. Avoid reheating, as pickles are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Serve them straight from the fridge for maximum crunch.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Four Day Pickles contains roughly 984 calories, with 16g protein, 217g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), and potassium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

984 kcal 49% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.8g 32% DV
Total Fat 3.3g 4% DV
Carbs 216.9g 79% DV
Fiber 27.5g 98% DV
Sugar 84.6g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 2828.4mg 60% DV
Cholesterol 0.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 93.7mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 196.3mg 100% DV
Calcium 415.3mg 32% DV
Iron 9.5mg 53% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-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

How long do these pickles last after making?

Once the Four Day Pickles are made, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. However, for the best flavor and texture, try to consume them within two weeks. Always keep them sealed tightly to maintain freshness.

Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?

Yes, while traditional pickling cucumbers are recommended for their crunch, you can also use English cucumbers or even smaller varieties like gherkins. Just ensure they are firm and fresh to achieve the desired texture in your pickles.

Is it possible to make these pickles less sweet?

Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. You might also consider adding more vinegar to enhance the tangy flavor without increasing sweetness. Adjusting the sugar will allow you to customize the taste to your preference.

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).

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