Sweet Pickle Spears
Sweet pickle spears offer a tangy, sweet flavor with a crunchy texture, perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches and burgers. Suitable for pickle lovers and condiment enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pickle jar and pour boiling water to cover the pickles that you have cut into spears.
- Chill and leave overnight.
- Bring to a boil the vinegar, sugar, and pickling spices.
- Boil for 5 minutes.
- Drain the pickles and pour the vinegar mixture over the pickles to cover.
- Let set for 14 days.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the vinegar mixture. If you don't have mixed pickling spices, you can create a substitute using mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and dill seeds. Ensure the pickles are fully submerged in the brine for best flavor absorption. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy American recipes with a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet pickle spears make a fantastic addition to any charcuterie board or as a tangy side for sandwiches. They pair beautifully with Grandma Ellen Hess' Cold Biscuit Pie or can be enjoyed alongside barbecued meats. For a refreshing twist, serve them with a side of Green Watergate Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sweet pickle spears in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. They can last for several months due to the vinegar and sugar preserving them. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply take out the desired amount and serve cold. There's no need to reheat, as they are best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Pickle Spears contains roughly 62 calories, with 0g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 sweet pickle spears need to sit before they are ready to eat?
The sweet pickle spears should sit for 14 days to fully absorb the flavors of the brine. This allows the sugar and spices to penetrate the pickles, creating a deliciously sweet and tangy treat. Patience is key for the best results!
Can I use different types of pickles for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of pickles such as bread and butter pickles or even spicy dill pickles for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change based on the type of pickles you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products. The primary ingredients, vinegar, sugar, and spices, are all plant-based, making it a great option for those looking for vegan recipes.
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).