Did you know one batch of bread and butter pickles can make 3 to 5 pints? With just 2 1/2 pounds of cucumbers, you can make a tasty condiment. This recipe shows how simple ingredients can turn cucumbers into amazing pickles.
These pickles are easy to make and don’t need special tools. They’re perfect for beginners. You’ll get a fresh, crunchy pickle that’s better than store-bought. Let’s start this fun cooking journey!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This recipe yields 3 to 5 pints of bread and butter pickles.
- 2 1/2 pounds of pickling cucumbers are needed.
- The pickling syrup includes white distilled vinegar and apple cider vinegar.
- Chill the cucumbers for 4 hours after salting for best results.
- Properly canned pickles can last up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.
- Enjoy your pickles within 24 hours, but flavor develops best after a week.
- Explore other recipes on gluten-free bagels for creative pairing ideas!
Introduction to Bread and Butter Pickles
Explore the world of traditional bread and butter pickles, loved by many for their special taste. They started during the Great Depression. People traded them for bread and butter, earning their name.
These pickles are sweet and tangy, unlike dill pickles. They mix vinegars, sugar, and spices for a perfect taste. Pickling cucumbers add crispness, while seasonings boost the flavor.
Each bite is crunchy and sweet, making meals more exciting. They’re great for sandwiches, burgers, and snack platters. Their unique taste adds to any dish.
What Makes This Recipe Perfect
This homemade bread and butter pickle recipe is a hit because of its balance of flavors. It combines sugar and vinegar for that sweet and tangy taste we all love. Plus, it’s easy to make without canning, so you can enjoy fresh pickles quickly.
You’ll need 5½ cups of pickling cucumbers, about 1½ pounds. Slice them ¼-inch thick and chill them with salt for 1½ hours. This makes them crunchier and tastier. Then, mix them with a hot vinegar blend and let it cool for 1 hour at room temperature. After that, refrigerate for 24 hours. Store them in an airtight container for up to a month.
This recipe makes 48 servings, great for family gatherings or personal snacks. Each serving has about 307 calories, mostly from carbs. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, C, Calcium, and Iron. It’s not only tasty but also healthy.
- 2 cups distilled vinegar
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 2½ cups sugar
- 1 peeled thinly sliced yellow onion
- 3 finely minced garlic cloves
- 1½ tablespoons sea salt
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seed
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 12-15 cloves
When you make easy bread and butter pickles, you’re in for a quick and tasty treat. It’s perfect for any time you want to enjoy pickles.
Ingredients for Homemade Bread and Butter Pickles
Knowing the right ingredients is key to making the best bread and butter pickles. The right mix will make your pickles taste great and feel just right. Let’s look at the main ingredients and how to pick the best cucumbers for a crunchy pickle.
Key Ingredients Explained
To make excellent quick bread and butter pickles, you’ll need a few things:
- 3 lbs. fresh pickling cucumbers
- 1 sweet onion
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt (pickling salt is preferred)
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds
- ⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric
These ingredients mix together to create a perfect flavor. The sugars add sweetness, and the vinegars give that tangy taste we all love.
Choosing the Right Cucumbers
Choosing the right cucumbers is important for that crunchy texture. Look for fresh, firm pickling cucumbers. They should be without bruises or blemishes. If you can’t find pickling cucumbers, you can use:
- European cucumbers
- Kirby cucumbers
These can be good substitutes, but they might taste and feel a bit different. Remember, the best pickles come from using top-quality ingredients. So, take your time to pick the best cucumbers.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh pickling cucumbers | 3 lbs. | Use firm, unblemished cucumbers |
| Sweet onion | 1 | For added sweetness |
| Kosher salt | 2 tbsp | Pickling salt is preferable |
| Distilled white vinegar | 1 cup | 5% acidity is recommended |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ¼ cups | Adjust to taste for sweetness |
| Ground turmeric | ⅛ tsp | For color and flavor |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Bread and Butter Pickles
Making your own bread and butter pickles is a fun process. It helps you create sweet and tangy pickles that are a hit. Follow these steps for the best homemade pickles.
Preparation Process
Start by cutting 4 quarts of cucumbers, 6 onions, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 red bell pepper. Dry the cucumbers with a paper towel or cloth to make them crisp. Mix the cucumbers and onions in a big bowl, adding salt. Let them sit for two hours to get rid of moisture and deepen the flavor. Then, rinse them well before moving on.
Cooking the Brine
Now, make the brine. In a big pot, mix 3 cups of white vinegar, 5 cups of sugar, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Add 2 tablespoons of mustard seed, 1½ teaspoons of turmeric, and 1½ teaspoons of celery seed. Boil it, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the sliced veggies and simmer for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors. Pour the hot brine into sterilized jars and seal them.
Sealed jars need to be processed in boiling water for 10 minutes at low elevations. Adjust the time for higher places: 15 minutes for 1,001 to 6,000 feet, and 20 minutes above 6,000 feet. Let them cool completely for a good seal. Enjoy the pickles in 24 hours, but they taste better after a week, especially three weeks.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Yield | 8 pints |
| Servings | 80 |
| Calories per Serving | 5 calories |
| Shelf Life (Open Jar) | Up to 3 months in the refrigerator |
| Shelf Life (Sealed Jar) | Several years if unopened |
| Optimal Flavor Time | At least 1 week, ideally 3 weeks |
Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe: Tips for Success
Making perfect homemade bread and butter pickles needs focus and creativity. You can change the sweetness by adding more sugar. For sweeter pickles, add a bit more sugar.
Try new things to make your pickles stand out. Add garlic or spices like coriander seeds and mustard seeds. These add flavor and make your pickles unique. Feel free to try new things!
Letting the pickles rest is key for flavor. Wait at least 24 hours before tasting. For even more flavor, let them rest up to a week. Then, you’ll really enjoy your homemade pickles.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Customize Sweetness | Adjust sugar levels according to your taste preference for sweeter pickles. |
| Add Aromatics | Incorporate garlic, spices, or herbs for varied flavor profiles. |
| Resting Period | Let pickles rest for at least 24 hours for optimal flavor development. |
| Storage Tips | Store in a cool, dark place for best shelf life. |
These tips will make your quick bread and butter pickles delicious. By following these simple tips, you can make pickles that everyone will love!
For more engaging recipes, check out this fascinating article for inspiration.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Pickles
Once you have your delicious bread and butter pickles ready, the possibilities are endless. They’re perfect for casual meals or festive gatherings. These pickles can add a special touch to many dishes.
Pairing Ideas for Sandwiches and Snacks
Classic bread and butter pickles make any sandwich or snack better. Here are some great ideas:
- Add them to pulled pork or brisket sandwiches for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Layer them on burgers to provide an extra crunchy texture alongside your favorite condiments.
- Serve slices as part of a charcuterie board, paired with cheese, meats, and crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Using Pickles in Other Recipes
Your homemade pickles are not just for snacking. They can be used in many recipes:
- Chop them finely and mix them into creamy potato salad or coleslaw for added zest.
- Use them as toppings on grilled meats, providing a flavorful contrast to savory dishes.
- Try adding them to salads, giving a satisfying crunch that complements fresh greens.
When using these pickles in dishes, remember they enhance many flavors. Whether you love the crunch of easy bread and butter pickles or the traditional taste, they’re a great addition to your cooking.
Storage and Shelf Life of Your Pickles
Proper storage for homemade pickles lets you enjoy them longer. Bread and butter pickles can last 2-3 months in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and tasty.
For longer storage, try water process canning. Canned pickles can last a year or more if canned safely. Always follow USDA guidelines for canning.
Remember, your recipe makes about 6-7 pints. This fits well in most fridges. Adding Pickle Crisp granules can make them even crisper.
After opening, keep pickles in the fridge and eat them within a month. If you don’t can them, they’ll stay good for six months in the fridge. Proper storage ensures your pickles stay delicious for a long time.
Looking for more recipes? Try this pumpkin butter recipe for a tasty homemade treat!
Conclusion
Making your own easy homemade bread and butter pickles is rewarding. This simple recipe lets you turn fresh cucumbers into a tasty condiment. You’ll need just a few ingredients like kosher salt, apple cider vinegar, and spices.
Remember to refrigerate your pickles for at least a day to let the flavors mix. But for the best taste, wait three days. You can also try different ingredients like bell peppers or green beans for a unique flavor.
Talking about making pickles can be fun. Share your experiences, successes, and challenges. For more ideas, check out this recipe for just the right bread and butter pickles. Join the pickle-making community and enjoy the delicious pickles you make!
F.A.Q
What are bread and butter pickles?
Bread and butter pickles are sweet and tangy. They’re made from cucumbers, vinegar, and sugar. They started during the Great Depression. They’re known for their crisp texture and unique taste, adding flavor to many dishes.
How long do homemade bread and butter pickles last?
Homemade bread and butter pickles last up to a month in the fridge. Keep them in a sealed container to stay fresh. This recipe isn’t for long-term storage.
Can I use regular cucumbers for this recipe?
You can use regular cucumbers if pickling cucumbers aren’t available. But, they might not be as crisp as pickling cucumbers.
What can I do to reduce the sweetness of the pickles?
To make pickles less sweet, adjust the sugar amount. Start with less sugar and taste the brine. Add more sugar if you want it sweeter.
Are there any variations to the classic bread and butter pickles recipe?
Yes! Try adding garlic, red pepper flakes, or dill for different flavors. You can change the recipe to match your taste.
How should I store my pickles for the best flavor?
Store your pickles in a sealed jar in the fridge. Let them sit for a few days to improve their taste.
