Lady Ashburnham Pickles
Lady Ashburnham Pickles are tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy relish-like pickles with a vibrant flavor profile. They combine crisp cucumbers and onions with a mustard-turmeric-spiced syrup, making them perfect as a condiment or accompaniment for sandwiches, meats, or cheese platters. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade, flavorful preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the cucumbers very fine, peeled, and with seeds removed, as for relish.
- Add 1/4 cup of salt to the cucumbers and let stand overnight.
- Drain the cucumbers in the morning.
- Add chopped onions, vinegar, sugar, flour, turmeric, dry mustard, and mustard seed to the cucumbers.
- Cook the mixture for 1 hour.
- Pour into hot jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, make sure to cut the cucumbers as finely as possible for even flavor distribution. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You can substitute regular vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder taste. If you're short on time, using pre-chopped onions can save you some prep work.
Serving Suggestions
These Lady Ashburnham Pickles are perfect as a zesty condiment for sandwiches or burgers, adding a nice crunch and tang. They also complement charcuterie boards beautifully. For a unique twist, pair them with Smothered Okra or serve them alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. The pickles can be enjoyed cold straight from the jar or used as a topping on sandwiches or salads. Reheat any leftovers gently on the stove if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lady Ashburnham Pickles contains roughly 653 calories, with 16g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1347mg per serving (59% 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 smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, smaller cucumbers can be used, but make sure they're not too seedy. They should be cut finely and salted as directed. Just adjust the quantity based on their size to maintain the overall volume needed in the recipe.
How long do these pickles last once opened?
Once opened, these pickles should be stored in the refrigerator and are best consumed within 2 to 4 weeks. Ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Can I make these pickles spicy?
Absolutely! To add some heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.
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).