Icicle Pickles(3 Days)
Crisp, tangy icicle pickles with a satisfying crunch, featuring a blend of vinegar, sugar, and pickling spices—perfect for relish lovers and those seeking a homemade snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut large cucumbers into sticks, removing seeds.
- Soak cucumber sticks in lime water for 24 hours using 2 cups of lime to 2 gallons of water.
- After soaking, rinse cucumbers thoroughly to remove lime residue.
- Prepare a pickling solution by combining 2 quarts of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of mixed pickling spice, and 5 pounds of sugar.
- Bring the pickling solution to a boil, then add the cucumber sticks.
- Simmer for a few minutes, then transfer the mixture into sterilized jars.
- Seal jars and store in a cool, dark place for at least 3 days before consuming.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crisper texture, consider using fresh, firm cucumbers. If you're out of alum, you can substitute it with an equal amount of salt, but the flavor may vary slightly. Ensure to soak the cucumbers long enough to draw out excess moisture. If desired, you can add garlic cloves or dill to the pickling solution for extra flavor. These icicle pickles are a great addition to any summer barbecue.
Serving Suggestions
These icicle pickles are perfect as a tangy snack on their own or served alongside sandwiches and charcuterie boards. They pair beautifully with Southern Pone Cornbread and can add a refreshing crunch to any salad, including Rutabaga Salad. For a delightful meal, serve them with grilled meats or as a condiment in burgers and hot dogs.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of icicle pickles in a cool, dark place. They can last for several months if properly sealed. Once opened, refrigerate the pickles and consume them within a month for the best quality. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the pickles immediately.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Icicle Pickles(3 Days) contains roughly 474 calories, with 10g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (203% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 icicle pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?
Icicle pickles need to be stored for at least 3 days before consuming to allow the flavors to develop fully. However, they improve in taste over time, so feel free to let them sit longer if you can resist!
Can I use smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while larger cucumbers are preferred for their crunch, smaller cucumbers can also be used. Just be sure to adjust the cutting size accordingly to maintain uniformity in soaking and pickling times.
What can I do if my pickling solution is too sweet?
If you find the pickling solution too sweet, you can adjust the balance by adding more vinegar to increase acidity. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, until you reach your desired flavor profile.
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).