Sweet Sliced Pickles
Sweet sliced pickles offer a tangy, spicy flavor with a touch of sweetness, perfect for summer gatherings or as a flavorful condiment for sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak whole unpeeled cucumbers in 1 gallon of salt water, with enough salt to float an egg, and cover with brine water. Soak for 48 hours.
- Remove cucumbers from brine, rinse thoroughly. Slice cucumbers and add 1 small box of alum to each gallon of water. Soak sliced cucumbers in alum solution for 24 hours.
- Drain and rinse the alum-soaked cucumbers.
- Pour white vinegar and add 1/2 box of turmeric. Soak the cucumbers in this mixture for 24 hours, then drain and rinse.
- Let the cucumbers stand in ice water for about an hour.
- In a churn, layer cucumbers and sugar until all are in the churn.
- Tie pickling spices in a rag and add to the churn.
- Ensure the cucumbers are submerged under the juice by continuously adding sugar.
- Keep churning until the pickles are used up.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant color, add a touch of food coloring to the vinegar mixture. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar layers in the churn. You can substitute alum with pickling lime for a similar crunch, but be cautious with quantities as it can affect texture. Ensure the cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet sliced pickles make an excellent accompaniment to sandwiches or burgers, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness. They pair beautifully with Chili Lovers Only for a spicy kick. Consider serving them alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards for a refreshing contrast. They can also be used as a topping for salads or potato dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sweet sliced pickles in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to a month. If you have leftovers, refrain from reheating them, as pickles are best enjoyed cold. Instead, serve them straight from the fridge for optimal crunch and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Sliced Pickles contains roughly 130 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 whole cucumbers are traditional, you can use smaller varieties like Kirby or Persian cucumbers for a more bite-sized pickle. Just adjust the soaking times slightly if they're significantly smaller or larger.
How long do these pickles need to marinate before serving?
After the final soaking in vinegar and turmeric, it's best to let the pickles marinate for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a tastier pickle.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can certainly adjust the sugar to your liking. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps preserve the pickles. Try reducing it gradually to find your preferred balance.
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).