Ina'S 11 Day Pickles
Ina's 11 Day Pickles are traditional homemade pickles with a perfect balance of tangy vinegar, sweetness, and warming spices. These crisp, flavorful pickles develop their complex taste over eleven days, making them an ideal accompaniment for sandwiches, dinners, or as a tangy snack for those who enjoy artisanal preserved foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak whole cucumbers in a salt brine (1 1/4 cups salt and enough cold water to cover) in a crock. Let stand for 3 days.
- On days 4 to 6, rinse the cucumbers daily with clear water.
- On the seventh day, cut cucumbers into very thin slices.
- Boil sliced cucumbers in a solution of 5 cups water, 3 tablespoons alum, and 2 1/2 cups vinegar.
- Drain the sliced cucumbers after boiling.
- Prepare hot spiced vinegar by combining 3 pints vinegar and 7 pounds sugar, tying cinnamon and cloves in a cheesecloth bag, and dropping it into the vinegar.
- Pour the hot spiced vinegar over the drained cucumbers.
- On days 8 to 10, reheat the vinegar and pour it over the pickles.
- On the eleventh day, seal the pickles in jars, covering them with hot spiced vinegar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm, fresh cucumbers and avoid overripe ones. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute designed for canning. Experiment with different spices like mustard seeds or dill for a unique twist. Ensure your jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage. This recipe can also be adjusted for smaller batches if you wish to try it out first.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic addition to any picnic or barbecue, pairing well with sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board. They complement dishes like a Tender Eye Of Round Roast beautifully. Consider serving them alongside Grandma Jacobs' Punch Bowl Cake for a sweet and savory meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the pickles refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. Reheat the hot spiced vinegar gently if you want to serve them warm, but they are delicious cold straight from the jar as a snack or alongside sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ina'S 11 Day Pickles contains roughly 925 calories, with 9g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 570mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I adjust the spice levels in the pickles?
To adjust the spice levels, you can add more or fewer whole cloves and cinnamon based on your preference. Additionally, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or dill seeds for a more traditional flavor. Just be mindful of balancing flavors to maintain the overall taste.
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while pickling cucumbers are preferred for their firmness and low seeds, you can experiment with other varieties like Kirby or even Persian cucumbers. Just ensure they are firm and fresh for the best pickling results.
How long do these pickles last once opened?
Once opened, the pickles should be stored in the refrigerator and can last up to 3-4 weeks. Make sure to keep them submerged in the vinegar solution to maintain their crunch and flavor. Always check for signs of spoilage before consumption.
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).