Icicle Cucumber Pickle
A crisp, tangy cucumber pickle with a salty and alum-enhanced flavor, perfect for those who enjoy traditional pickling with a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix boiling water and salt, then pour over sliced cucumbers and let stand for one week, stirring after the third day to keep down scum.
- Drain the cucumbers and add alum about the size of a walnut, powdered if available.
- Cover with boiling water and let stand for 24 hours or no more than 2 days.
- Drain and rinse the cucumbers in cold water.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh, firm cucumbers and consider adding spices like dill or garlic to enhance the pickling process. If you don't have alum, you can omit it, but it helps maintain the crispness of the cucumbers. Stir the mixture regularly to prevent scum formation, especially after the third day. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, consider adding sugar to the brine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve icicle cucumber pickles as a refreshing side dish or appetizer. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a tangy addition to salads. For a delightful twist, try them alongside dishes like Danny'S Hamburger Soup With Peas. They can also be served as part of a picnic spread with cheeses and crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the icicle cucumber pickles in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two months. Ensure the pickles are submerged in the brine to maintain their flavor and crunch. To reheat, simply drain the pickles and serve cold or at room temperature as they are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Icicle Cucumber Pickle contains roughly 405 calories, with 16g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2109mg per serving (92% 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 different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while slicing cucumbers are preferred for their firmness, you can use other varieties like pickling cucumbers. Just ensure they are fresh and free of blemishes. The key is to slice them evenly to ensure uniform pickling.
How can I adjust the saltiness of the pickles?
To adjust the saltiness, you can reduce the amount of salt in the initial brine, but keep in mind that this can affect the preservation quality. Alternatively, after rinsing the cucumbers, taste them and soak them in fresh water for a few hours to draw out excess salt.
Is it necessary to add alum in the recipe?
While alum is not strictly necessary, it does help maintain the crisp texture of the cucumbers during the pickling process. If you prefer not to use it, be aware that the pickles may be slightly softer but still delicious.
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).