Sweet Pickle
Sweet pickle is a delicious, tangy condiment featuring crisp cucumbers soaked in a sweet and spiced vinegar syrup, perfect for enhancing sandwiches and meals for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers and cut into chunks.
- Boil 1 gallon of water with 2 cups of salt.
- Pour the hot brine over cucumbers in a crock jar or plastic bucket.
- Weigh down the cucumbers to keep them submerged.
- Let set for 8 days.
- Drain and rinse the cucumbers well.
- Cover with 2 ounces of alum per gallon of boiling water and let set for 24 hours.
- Drain and rinse the cucumbers once.
- Cover with apple cider vinegar.
- Let set for 8 to 24 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers.
- Layer cucumbers, sugar, and spice (use 10 pounds of sugar to 4 gallons of pickles), and let stand for 2 days to make its own syrup.
- Stir the mixture.
- Let stand for 2 or 3 more days.
- Can the pickles or leave them in a crock for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
When making sweet pickles, consider using smaller cucumbers for a crunchier texture. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute white vinegar for apple cider vinegar. For a hint of sweetness, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure your container is sanitized to prevent spoilage. If using fresh herbs, dill can add a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet pickles are a fantastic addition to charcuterie boards or as a crunchy topping on sandwiches. Pair them with grilled meats or serve alongside a refreshing salad. They also complement rich dishes well, making them a perfect side for barbecued foods. For a unique twist, try serving them with a dish like Pineapple Zucchini.
Storage & Reheating
Store your sweet pickles in a cool, dark place if canned, or in the refrigerator if left in a crock. If stored in the fridge, consume within a month for the best flavor. To reheat, warm gently in a pan to avoid softening, as they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Pickle contains roughly 910 calories, with 20g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and iron (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1085mg per serving (47% 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 sweet pickles last?
When properly canned, sweet pickles can last up to a year in a cool, dark environment. If kept in the refrigerator, consume them within a month for optimal freshness. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I make sweet pickles without alum?
Yes, you can skip the alum if you prefer. While alum helps maintain crunchiness, soaking the cucumbers in saltwater for longer can also achieve a similar result. Adjusting the salt content can enhance the flavor without it.
What spices work well in sweet pickles?
Common spices for sweet pickles include mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and cloves. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
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).