Sweet Pickle Rings(Red Pickles)
Sweet Pickle Rings are colorful, tangy, and sweet pickled cucumbers with a hint of cinnamon and alum, perfect for snacking or adding a zestful touch to meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and core cucumbers, slicing them 1/2-inch thick and scraping out the seeds to form rings.
- Mix a solution of pickling lime and 5 quarts of water, ensuring the cucumbers are fully covered.
- Let the cucumbers stand in the lime solution for 24 hours, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Drain the cucumbers well and rinse them thoroughly.
- Cover the cucumbers with vinegar, red food coloring, powdered alum, and enough water to cover.
- Let the cucumbers stand in this solution for 2 hours or longer.
- Drain and discard the solution before using or storing the pickles.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure cucumbers are fresh and firm to maintain crunchiness. If you prefer a less sweet taste, reduce the sugar to 7 or 8 cups. You can also experiment with spices like cloves or allspice for added flavor. If red food coloring is unavailable, consider using beet juice for a natural alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet pickle rings make a delightful addition to burgers, sandwiches, or as a tangy side with charcuterie boards. They pair beautifully with My Mother'S Fried Apples for a sweet and savory combination. Try serving them alongside grilled meats or as a topping for tacos to enhance flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sweet pickle rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. If you plan to keep them longer, consider canning them using sterilized jars. When ready to serve, there's no need to reheat; simply enjoy them cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Pickle Rings(Red Pickles) contains roughly 1962 calories, with 25g protein, 320g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (213% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and iron (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% 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?
Yes, while the recipe traditionally uses slicing cucumbers, pickling cucumbers or even smaller varieties like Kirby can work well too. Choose firm cucumbers to ensure a crunchy texture in your final product.
How long do these pickles last once opened?
Once opened, the sweet pickle rings can last in the refrigerator for about 3 months. Always ensure they are kept in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
What can I do with leftover brine?
Leftover brine can be reused for quick pickling other vegetables like onions or radishes. Just make sure to strain it and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or use it to add flavor to marinades and salad dressings.
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).