Jug Pickles
Crunchy, sweet, and tangy pickles with a hint of spice, perfect for those who enjoy homemade preserved vegetables with bold flavors. Suitable for snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and slice onions and cucumbers.
- Mix sugar, vinegar, salt, alum, mustard seed, and celery seed to make syrup.
- Put onions and cucumbers in a jug and pour the syrup over them.
- Mix well and refrigerate.
- Next day, take out of refrigerator and shake well.
- Repeat this process for 6 days.
- On the 7th day, the pickles may be eaten.
- Keep the pickles refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly, or use a sugar substitute if desired. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the syrup. Ensure the cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best texture. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, like apple cider vinegar, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These jug pickles are a delightful addition to any summer barbecue or picnic. Serve them alongside sandwiches or burgers, or as a tangy side with dishes like Easy Coleslaw (Low-Fat And Sugar-Free). They can also be chopped and added to salads for an extra crunch. Enjoy them as a refreshing snack on their own!
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for several weeks when kept cold. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or changes in color, discard them. There's no need to reheat these pickles; they are best enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jug Pickles contains roughly 610 calories, with 7g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 637mg per serving (28% 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 last in the fridge?
When properly stored in an airtight container, these jug pickles can last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. However, their flavor may deepen over time, making them even more delicious as they sit.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into sizes similar to the cucumbers and onions for even marinating.
Is it necessary to shake the pickles daily?
Yes, shaking the pickles daily helps evenly distribute the syrup, ensuring all the cucumbers and onions absorb the flavors. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste.
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).