Pickles

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: American

Pickles are a delightful tangy treat that adds crunch and flavor to any meal. This recipe balances the sharpness of vinegar with the saltiness, creating a perfect bite. Ideal for those who love preserving seasonal produce or adding zing to their sandwiches and salads.

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Ingredients

  • 2 gal. cucumbers
  • 1 gal. vinegar
  • 1 box alum
  • 2 c. salt
  • 1 gal. water

Instructions

  1. Pour boiling water with salt over cucumbers.
  2. Let stand for 24 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For crispier pickles, consider adding a few grape leaves or using fresh dill. If you prefer less salt, reduce the amount gradually while maintaining the vinegar for flavor. You can also substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different taste. Be sure to use non-iodized salt to prevent cloudiness in the brine. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding garlic or spices to customize your pickles.

Serving Suggestions

These pickles are a fantastic accompaniment to sandwiches and burgers, adding a tangy crunch to your meal. They also pair beautifully with Summer Vegetable Bake or can be enjoyed as a snack on their own. For a refreshing drink, serve with Bubblin' Party Punch to balance the flavors. Consider adding them to a charcuterie board for a delightful variety.

Storage & Reheating

After the pickles have marinated, store them in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They can last for several weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider canning them using proper methods for shelf stability. Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination when serving. Reheating is not necessary, as pickles are best served cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pickles contains roughly 490 calories, with 5g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1869mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

490 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.4g 11% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 96g 35% DV
Fiber 3.5g 13% DV
Sugar 81.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1869.2mg 81% DV
Potassium 1240.4mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 16mg 18% DV
Calcium 206.5mg 16% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

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 such as Kirby or Persian cucumbers, which are often preferred for pickling due to their firmness and crisp texture. Just ensure they are fresh and unblemished for the best results.

How long do these pickles need to sit before they are ready?

The pickles should sit for at least 24 hours to absorb the flavors and develop their tanginess. For even better flavor, consider letting them sit for a week before enjoying.

What can I do if my pickles turn out too salty?

If your pickles are too salty, you can soak them in fresh water for a few hours to help reduce the saltiness. Taste them periodically to achieve your desired flavor. Alternatively, use them in recipes like Tomato Soup Cake(Spice Cake) where the saltiness can be balanced by other ingredients.

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).

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