Mrs. H. S. Avant, Sr. Cucumber Pickles
Mrs. H. S. Avant, Sr. Cucumber Pickles offer a crisp, sweet, and tangy flavor profile with aromatic spices, making them an excellent accompaniment for sandwiches, picnics, or as a flavorful snack. Their homemade charm and vibrant taste appeal to those who enjoy classic preserved vegetables with a nostalgic touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and cut them into pieces.
- Place the cucumber pieces in a dish and cover with boiling water.
- Sprinkle salt and alum over the cucumbers.
- Let the cucumbers stand in the water until it becomes lukewarm.
- Remove the cucumbers from the water and rinse them.
- Drain the cucumbers on a towel.
- Make a syrup by combining sugar, vinegar, and pickling spices.
- Boil the syrup and pour it over the cucumbers placed in sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars and turn them upside down to ensure proper sealing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crisper texture, try using smaller cucumbers or pickling cucumbers specifically. If you don't have alum, you can skip it, but the pickles may not be as crisp. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar if you prefer a less sweet pickle. Remember to use fresh pickling spices for the best flavor; old spices can lose potency.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumber pickles make a fantastic side dish for sandwiches, burgers, or any barbecue spread. They complement well with dishes like Perfect Barbecue Slaw and can add a refreshing crunch to salads. Consider serving them alongside a charcuterie board or as a tangy contrast to rich meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cellar. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, where they will last for several weeks. To enjoy, simply serve cold or at room temperature; there's no need to reheat these pickles, as they are a perfect addition to any meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. H. S. Avant, Sr. Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 418 calories, with 2g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), potassium (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1562mg per serving (68% 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 different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using larger cucumbers, make sure to slice them thinly for quicker pickling.
How long do these pickles need to sit before they're ready?
The pickles should sit for at least 24 hours after sealing to develop their flavors. However, for the best taste, allow them to marinate for a week before enjoying.
Can I add other spices to the pickling mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the pickling spices to your liking. Adding dill, garlic, or mustard seeds can enhance the flavor profile and create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
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).