Red Cucumber Pickles
Vibrant red cucumber pickles with a sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy bold, colorful condiments with a unique twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak prepared cucumbers in 2 1/2 gallons of water and 2 cups lime for 24 hours.
- Rinse the cucumbers several times.
- Soak in tap water for 3 hours.
- Combine red food coloring, 1 cup vinegar, alum, and cucumbers with enough water to cover them.
- Simmer the mixture for 3 hours, then drain.
- Combine 3 cups vinegar, 3 cups water, red hot candies, cinnamon sticks, and sugar, and bring almost to a boil.
- Pour the hot syrup over the pickles on Monday and let stand for 24 hours.
- Reheat the mixture on Tuesday and let stand for another 24 hours.
- Repeat the process on Wednesday and Thursday.
- Seal the jars on Friday.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant color, ensure the red food coloring is well mixed with the vinegar before adding to the cucumbers. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the amount of red hot candies or substitute with cinnamon sticks for added flavor. Using a non-reactive container for soaking is crucial to maintain the pickles' integrity. Adjust the lime quantity if you want a tangier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These vibrant red cucumber pickles make an eye-catching side dish, perfect for barbecues or picnics. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as part of a cheese platter. They also pair beautifully with Quilters Tea for a refreshing contrast. For a twist, chop the pickles and mix them into a salad for added crunch and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness. Once opened, keep the pickles in the refrigerator, where they can last for several months. To enjoy, simply scoop out the desired amount and serve cold. Reheat the pickles gently in a saucepan if you prefer them warm, but this may alter their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 970 calories, with 14g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (206% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and potassium (42% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cucumbers for this recipe?
While large cucumbers are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with smaller varieties like Persian or English cucumbers. Just adjust the soaking time as smaller cucumbers may absorb flavors more quickly.
How can I ensure my pickles stay crunchy?
To maintain the crunchiness of your pickles, avoid overcooking them during the simmering step. Be sure to rinse the cucumbers thoroughly after soaking, and store them in a cool place after sealing to prevent softening.
Is it necessary to use red food coloring?
Red food coloring is not essential but adds a striking visual appeal to the pickles. If you prefer a more natural look, you can omit it, but the pickles will have a lighter color. Experiment with beet juice for a natural alternative.
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).