Society Pickles
Society Pickles are sweet and tangy homemade pickles with a balanced flavor of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Perfect for those who enjoy crisp, flavorful preserved cucumbers, they make a delightful accompaniment to sandwiches, picnics, or as a snack. A nostalgic recipe from North Dakota Jaycees, July 1976.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers into desired pickle shapes.
- Combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pickling spices in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pack the cucumber slices into sterilized jars.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Tips & Substitutions
For a balanced flavor, consider using a mix of white and apple cider vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly. Fresh dill or garlic can also be added for extra flavor. Make sure to slice the cucumbers evenly for consistent pickling. Remember, the longer they sit, the more flavorful they'll become, so be patient!
Serving Suggestions
These Society Pickles are perfect as a crunchy side dish or condiment for sandwiches, especially paired with C.J.'S Tangy Bread And Butter Pickles. Serve them alongside charcuterie boards or as a tangy addition to salads. They also pair well with grilled meats and can add a zesty kick to burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in the refrigerator in their sealed jars. They will keep for up to 2 months. Always use clean utensils when removing pickles to prevent contamination. If you find the pickles becoming softer over time, consume them sooner to enjoy their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Society Pickles contains roughly 578 calories, with 9g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1855mg per serving (81% 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 different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of cucumbers, such as pickling cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers, which are known for their crunch. Just ensure they are fresh and firm for the best results.
How long do the pickles need to sit before they're ready to eat?
While you can technically start enjoying them after 24 hours, the flavors truly develop after about a week. For the best taste, allow them to marinate for at least a week before serving.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar to your preference. If you want a less sweet pickle, reduce the sugar by a cup or substitute with a sugar alternative, keeping in mind that it may alter the final flavor.
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).