Four Day Sweet Pickles
Sweet pickles with a crunchy texture and balanced tangy-sweet flavor, perfect for pickle lovers and great for adding a homemade touch to sandwiches and snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thinly slice one gallon of cucumbers.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large crock or nonmetal container.
- In a separate pan, bring to a boil one gallon of water and 1/4 cup of salt.
- Pour the hot water mixture over the cucumbers.
- Weigh the cucumbers down to prevent floating, using a plate turned upside-down and a heavy object.
- Leave the cucumbers to soak for 4 days.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your pickles, consider adding garlic cloves or extra spices like dill or red pepper flakes. If you don't have alum, you can omit it, but it helps keep the pickles crisp. Use a non-reactive container, such as glass or food-grade plastic, to avoid any off-flavors. For a sweeter variation, you can adjust the sugar to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet pickles are perfect as a snack or a condiment for sandwiches and burgers. They pair beautifully with Ready After Church Chicken And Rice for a delightful meal. Serve them alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards for added crunch and sweetness. They also make a great topping for salads or can be enjoyed straight from the jar.
Storage & Reheating
Once the pickles are ready, store them in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They will keep well for several months. If you want to preserve them for even longer, consider canning them using a hot water bath. Reheat only if you prefer warm pickles, but they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Four Day Sweet Pickles contains roughly 520 calories, with 10g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1801mg per serving (78% 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 stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, these sweet pickles can last for up to 6 months. Always check for any off smells or signs of spoilage before consuming. If you notice any changes, it's best to discard them.
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different varieties of cucumbers, such as Kirby or Persian cucumbers, which are also great for pickling. Just make sure they're fresh and firm to ensure the best texture in your pickles.
What can I do if I prefer less sweetness in my pickles?
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by half or even more, depending on your taste. You can also add more vinegar to balance the sweetness with acidity.
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).