Never Can Cucumber Pickles
Never Can Cucumber Pickles are crisp, tangy, and sweet pickles with a hint of turmeric and spice, perfect for those who enjoy homemade, flavorful preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salt with water to create a brine.
- Pour the salt water over the cucumbers and let stand for 3 days; then drain off the salt water.
- Rinse the cucumbers three times with fresh water.
- Add lump alum to a pitcher of water and pour over the cucumbers.
- Let stand for 24 hours, then drain, leaving the cucumbers in the container.
- Rinse the cucumbers three times again.
- Fill the container with undiluted vinegar to cover the cucumbers.
- Let stand for 7 days.
- Drain off the vinegar but do not rinse the cucumbers.
- Add 3 cups of sugar, turmeric, and enough pickling spice tied in a cloth to form a ball the size of a walnut; drop into the container with the cucumbers, sugar, and turmeric.
- Add 3 cups of sugar every day for 3 days, then serve when desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh, firm cucumbers. If you can't find lump alum, you can substitute with a pinch of baking powder, but the texture may slightly differ. Experiment with different pickling spices to suit your taste, and try adding garlic or dill for extra flavor. Make sure to use a glass or ceramic container to avoid any reactions with metal.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a great side dish for barbecues or can be enjoyed as a tangy snack. They pair beautifully with Cold Mostaccioli Salad and can elevate a simple sandwich or burger. Consider serving them alongside Patrick's Punch for a refreshing meal or picnic spread. They also make a great addition to any charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. They can last for several months if kept properly. If you notice any signs of spoilage or off smells, discard them. For a quick snack, simply enjoy them cold right out of the jar, or add them to sandwiches for an extra crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never Can Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 2031 calories, with 59g protein, 454g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (484% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (206% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 these pickles last after making them?
Once prepared and stored in a sealed jar, these pickles can last for several months in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are fully submerged in the brine to maintain freshness. If you notice any changes in taste or smell, it's safer to discard them.
Can I adjust the sugar levels in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet pickle. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with preservation. Adjust the quantity gradually and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Is it possible to make these pickles vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it does not include any animal products. You can feel free to enjoy these pickles as part of your vegan recipes collection, and they complement many plant-based dishes wonderfully.
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).