Red Cucumber Pickles(Mock Apple Rings)
Bright red cucumber pickles with a sweet, tangy, spiced flavor profile, perfect for snack platters or as a colorful condiment for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice cucumbers 1/2-inch thick.
- Mix 1 gallon water and 1 cup lime well, then pour over cucumbers in a churn. Let stand for 24 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers.
- Wash the cucumbers 3 times.
- Drain again.
- Cover with ice and let stand for 3 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers.
- Combine 1 cup white vinegar, red cake coloring, alum, and enough water to cover the cucumbers. Simmer for 2 hours, then drain and discard this liquid.
- Prepare a syrup by boiling 4 cups white vinegar, cinnamon sticks, sugar, 4 cups water, and red hots for 40 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the cucumbers and let stand overnight.
- The next morning, drain and heat the syrup until hot, then pour over the cucumbers and let stand again.
- On the third morning, heat the cucumbers in a pan for a few minutes until hot, then pack into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, use firm cucumbers and ensure they are thoroughly drained after each step to avoid excess water in the final product. Substitute lime with lemon juice if unavailable, and adjust the sugar in the syrup according to your sweetness preference. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the syrup. These pickles also make a great addition to sandwiches or salads.
Serving Suggestions
These Red Cucumber Pickles are perfect as a tangy snack or a unique side dish. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a cheese platter. For a twist, try them in a salad, or use them to enhance dishes like Tasty Quick Spinach. They also work wonderfully as a topping for sandwiches or burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the finished pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They will keep for several months if sealed properly. For long-term storage, consider canning them. To enjoy later, simply open a jar and serve cold or at room temperature. If you prefer them warmed, heat them gently in a saucepan without boiling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cucumber Pickles(Mock Apple Rings) contains roughly 96 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 smaller cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use smaller cucumbers, but make sure to slice them to a uniform thickness of 1/2-inch. Smaller cucumbers may require less soaking time, so monitor their texture as you prepare them.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar in the syrup. Start with less sugar, taste, and gradually add more until you reach your desired sweetness level. Remember to keep the balance with the vinegar's acidity.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like cloves or allspice in the syrup for additional flavor. Alternatively, try adding some sliced jalapeños for a spicy version. Explore other combinations 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).