Mrs. Taylor'S Pickles
Crispy, sweet pickles with a tangy flavor, perfect for snack platters or sandwiches. Ideal for those who enjoy homemade, flavorful preserved vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare cucumbers by washing and slicing as desired.
- Mix pickling lime with water and soak cucumbers for a specified time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Combine cider vinegar, salt, sugar, and pickling spice in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Add prepared cucumbers to the vinegar mixture and cook until they reach the desired crispness.
- Pack pickles into sterilized jars and seal for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing cucumbers, choose firm, fresh ones for the best crunch. For a tangy twist, you can substitute half of the cider vinegar with white vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly. Soaking the cucumbers in pickling lime is key for crispness, so don't skip that step. Always rinse the cucumbers thoroughly after soaking to remove any residue.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic addition to sandwiches or burgers, adding a zesty crunch. Serve alongside a platter of meats and cheeses, or enjoy them as a standalone snack. They pair beautifully with Country Garden Salad Dressing for a refreshing side dish. For a fun twist, try adding them to a charcuterie board for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of pickles in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, where they can last for several months. If you have leftovers, ensure the pickles are fully submerged in the brine to maintain their texture and flavor. Reheat gently if using in warm dishes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Taylor'S Pickles contains roughly 622 calories, with 13g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and potassium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1824mg per serving (79% 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 the pickles need to soak in pickling lime?
Cucumbers should soak in pickling lime for about 12 hours to achieve the desired crispness. After soaking, it's crucial to rinse them thoroughly to remove the lime before proceeding with the pickling process. This ensures that the pickles are safe to eat and have the right texture.
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while this recipe is typically made with slicing cucumbers, you can also use pickling cucumbers for a more traditional taste. Just make sure they are firm and fresh. If using larger cucumbers, consider cutting them into smaller pieces for better brine absorption.
What can I do if I find my pickles too salty?
If your pickles turn out too salty, you can soak them in fresh water for a couple of hours to draw out some of the saltiness. Alternatively, consider using less salt in future batches or adding more sugar to balance the flavors. Adjustments can be made to suit your taste preferences.
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).