Lillie'S Crispy Bread And Butter Pickles
Crispy bread and butter pickles with a tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor profile, perfect for snacking or as a condiment for family gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak whole cucumbers in a mixture of lime and water overnight. Mix until lime dissolves, then rinse cucumbers and drain.
- Slice cucumbers into 1/4 inch slices and return to a large container.
- Add peeled and sliced small onions to the cucumber slices.
- Pour salt over all and mix well.
- Cover with cubed or chipped ice and let stand for 3 hours.
- Drain the container thoroughly.
- In a large kettle, combine vinegar, sugar, and spices tied in a cheesecloth bag.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add onions and cucumbers to the boiling syrup and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Pack the hot pickles into sterilized jars, remove the spice bag, and pour hot syrup into jars within 1/2 inch of the top. Seal immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure that the pickling lime is fully dissolved in the water before soaking cucumbers to avoid any gritty texture. If you can't find pickling salt, kosher salt can be used, but avoid table salt as it may contain anti-caking agents. For a spicier kick, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño during the pickling process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy bread and butter pickles as a tangy addition to sandwiches or burgers. They also work wonderfully in a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and cured meats. For a delightful meal, consider them alongside the Applesauce-Ginger Ale Gelatin Salad for a perfect balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within two months for the best flavor and crunch. For those who enjoy a refreshing drink, these pickles pair well with a chilled glass of Wildberry Punch on a hot day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lillie'S Crispy Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 473 calories, with 5g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium-sized cucumbers are traditional, you can use Kirby or pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture. Just ensure they are firm and fresh to achieve the best results.
How long do these pickles need to sit before they're ready to eat?
These pickles need at least 24 hours after canning to allow the flavors to meld. However, for optimal taste, waiting about a week before consuming is recommended.
What can I do if my pickles are too sweet?
If you find the pickles too sweet, you can adjust the sugar next time or add a bit more vinegar during the cooking process to balance the flavors. Experimenting with the spices can also help enhance the taste 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).