Ma Ballard'S Bread And Butter Pickles
Sweet and tangy bread and butter pickles with a crisp texture, featuring cucumbers, onions, and peppers in a seasoned vinegar syrup, perfect for snacking or as a condiment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover sliced cucumbers with ice; let stand for 3 hours, then drain.
- In a large kettle, combine 3 cups of cider vinegar, 4 cups sugar, turmeric, celery seed, and mustard seed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the drained cucumbers, onions, and peppers.
- Bring to a good boil and then can the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh, firm cucumbers and let them sit in ice for the full 3 hours. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also substitute the bell peppers with jalapeños for a more zesty version. Ensure you use plain salt, as iodized salt can affect the pickling process.
Serving Suggestions
These bread and butter pickles are perfect as a tangy topping for sandwiches or burgers. Serve them alongside a charcuterie board or pair with dishes like Pot Or Chuck Roast for a delightful contrast. They also make a great addition to any picnic spread, complementing items like Mom'S Infamous Ginger Cookies for a sweet and savory balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store the bread and butter pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 months. If you have leftover pickles after opening, make sure to keep them submerged in the liquid to maintain their crunchiness. For longer storage, consider processing them in a water bath canner.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ma Ballard'S Bread And Butter Pickles contains roughly 1724 calories, with 41g protein, 342g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (289% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (210% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1519mg per serving (66% 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 other types of vinegar instead of cider vinegar?
While cider vinegar provides a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with white vinegar or rice vinegar if needed. However, this may slightly alter the taste of the pickles. Experiment and see what you prefer!
How long do the pickles need to sit before they're ready to eat?
For the best flavor, let the pickles sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, they can be enjoyed immediately after canning if you're in a hurry!
Can I add other vegetables to the pickles?
Absolutely! You can incorporate other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind the pickling time may vary slightly based on the vegetables you choose.
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).