Red Hot Cinnamon Cucumber Rings
Spicy red cinnamon cucumber rings offer a vibrant, tangy flavor with a hint of heat, perfect as a unique pickle or condiment for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak peeled, sliced cucumbers in lime and water for 24 hours.
- Drain and wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
- Prepare a solution with alum, 1 cup vinegar, and red food coloring; add enough water to cover the cucumbers.
- Simmer the cucumbers in this solution for 2 hours or until tender, then drain.
- Make a syrup by dissolving red hot cinnamon candy in 2 cups hot water, then add 3 cups white vinegar, 15 cups sugar, and 8 broken cinnamon sticks.
- Bring the syrup to a boil and pour it over the drained cucumbers.
- Let the cucumbers set in the syrup overnight.
- Drain the cucumbers the next day, bring the syrup to a boil again, and pour over the cucumbers.
- Repeat this process for 3 nights.
- On the final day, pack the cucumbers into jars, pour boiling syrup over them, and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add more red hot cinnamon candy to the syrup. If you prefer a less intense flavor, consider reducing the amount of vinegar slightly. Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best texture and taste. If you can't find alum, you can skip it, but it helps maintain crispness. Ensure your jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
These Red Hot Cinnamon Cucumber Rings make a unique side dish, pairing well with grilled meats and spicy dishes. They also complement a cheese platter or can be served atop salads for a sweet and spicy element. Try them alongside Sea Leg Pasta for a refreshing contrast. They can also be enjoyed as a creative topping on sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store the packed jars in a cool, dark place. They can be kept for several months if sealed properly. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks for the best flavor. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat if you prefer them warm or enjoy them cold straight from the jar.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Cinnamon Cucumber Rings contains roughly 1604 calories, with 25g protein, 259g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (216% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 939mg per serving (41% 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
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
While English cucumbers are often preferred for their texture, you can use any variety, as long as they are peeled and seeded. Just ensure they are fresh and firm for the best results in this recipe.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the syrup?
If you want a sweeter syrup, you can increase the sugar by a cup or two according to your taste. Conversely, reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet flavor. Just be cautious, as this may affect the overall preservation of the cucumbers.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
Leftover syrup can be used as a unique sweetener for drinks or desserts. Consider using it in cocktails, over ice cream, or in marinades. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks to maintain freshness.
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).