Split Pickles
Split pickles are a traditional preserved treat featuring tangy, sweet, and spiced flavors, perfect for those who enjoy homemade preserves and flavorful snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put pickles in water and leave them in the brine for one week.
- Drain the brine off and cover the pickles with clear boiling water.
- Leave the pickles in this water for 24 hours.
- Drain off the water and cover the pickles with boiling water into which a lump of alum the size of a hulled walnut has been placed.
- Leave the pickles in this water for 24 hours, then take out, drain, and pack in jars.
- Cover the pickles with the mixture of 8 cups vinegar, 8 cups sugar, 5 cents worth of cassia buds, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons mixed spices, boiling hot.
- Leave the pickles in this mixture for 24 hours, then drain, heat the mixture boiling hot, and cover the pickles.
- Repeat this process in 24-hour intervals, then seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm pickles and ensure they are fully submerged in the brine. If you can't find cassia buds, you can substitute with cinnamon sticks for a similar flavor. Adjust the sugar based on your desired sweetness level. Experiment with different spices in the mixture to customize the flavor profile. This recipe can also be adapted for vegan recipes by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
These split pickles make a great addition to any charcuterie board and pair wonderfully with sandwiches or burgers. Serve alongside Salabat (Ginger Tea) for a refreshing contrast. They can also be enjoyed as a tangy snack on their own or used to enhance salads. For something sweet, consider serving with Fried Baked Apples for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Once sealed, store the jars in a cool, dark place. If you open a jar, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks for optimal flavor and crunch. To reheat, simply warm the pickles gently on the stove, but be careful not to overheat, as this can affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Split Pickles contains roughly 3884 calories, with 45g protein, 532g carbohydrates, and 195g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (534% of the Daily Value), iron (221% of the Daily Value), and calcium (148% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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
How long do the pickles last once sealed?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, these pickles can last for up to a year. However, once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like green beans or cucumbers. Just ensure they are treated similarly to pickles in the brining process for optimal flavor and texture.
What if I don't have alum?
If you can't find alum, you can skip it or try using a bit of vinegar to help maintain the crispness of the pickles. However, alum does help in achieving the desired crunch, so use it if possible.
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).