Tongue Pickles

Prep: 30 min Cook: 60 min

Tangy and sweet cucumber pickles infused with warm spices, perfect as a condiment or accompaniment for sandwiches and meals, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful preserves.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. ripe cucumbers
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. cloves
  • 1 tsp. ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 1 1/2 lb. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 c. white sugar
  • 2 c. white vinegar

Instructions

  1. Peel cucumbers and cut into small pieces.
  2. Remove the seeds from the cucumbers.
  3. Place the cucumber pieces in an enamel pot.
  4. Put cinnamon, cloves, ground ginger, and pepper in a cloth bag.
  5. Add the spice bag, brown sugar, salt, and white vinegar to the pot.
  6. Cook until the cucumbers are tender.
  7. Let the mixture set overnight.
  8. Heat the mixture again and can.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your tongue pickles, consider adding a few slices of fresh ginger or a dash of allspice for an extra kick. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, you can increase the brown sugar slightly. For a more tangy flavor, substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar. Make sure to use fresh, firm cucumbers for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tongue pickles as a tangy side dish or condiment alongside charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or grilled meats. They pair beautifully with Phoebe'S Steak(Yield: 6 Servings) or as a refreshing contrast to richer dishes. For an adventurous twist, try them in a salad or as part of a gourmet burger topping.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickles in airtight jars in the refrigerator to keep them crisp and flavorful. They can last for several weeks when properly sealed. If you wish to preserve them for longer, follow proper canning techniques to ensure safety. Reheat gently in a saucepan on low heat when serving, if desired.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tongue Pickles contains roughly 2990 calories, with 11g protein, 754g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (141% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1835mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).

2990 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.1g 22% DV
Total Fat 5.4g 7% DV
Carbs 753.9g 100% DV
Fiber 17.4g 62% DV
Sugar 668.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1834.7mg 80% DV
Potassium 1838.9mg 39% DV
Cholesterol 0mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.8mcg
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Calcium 293.5mg 23% DV
Iron 25.4mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-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

Can I use smaller cucumbers for this recipe?

Yes, smaller cucumbers, such as pickling cucumbers, can work well for tongue pickles. They usually have a firmer texture and are ideal for pickling. Just ensure they are fresh and crisp for the best results.

How long do these pickles need to sit before they are ready?

After cooking, it's best to let the mixture set overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the spices. However, they can be enjoyed after just a few hours if you're in a hurry.

What other spices can I add to customize my pickles?

You can experiment with various spices such as mustard seeds, dill, or coriander to create a unique flavor profile. Just remember to start with small amounts and adjust according to your taste preferences.

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).

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