Decadent Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe

Bread and butter pickles are a delightful and tangy treat that perfectly balances sweetness and savoriness. These pickles are an ideal addition to sandwiches, salads, or served as a crunchy side dish. Making your own at home is not only simple but also a rewarding experience that allows you to customize flavors to suit your palate.

Ingredients

To create a batch of approximately four pints of bread and butter pickles, you’ll need:

• 6 cups of thinly sliced cucumbers (preferably English cucumbers for their crisp texture)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onions work best)
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of pickling salt
• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon of celery seeds
• ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like dill or parsley)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can choose to leave the skins on for a more rustic look. Next, thinly slice your onion. Add the cucumber slices and onion to a large bowl, sprinkling with pickling salt. Toss them gently to combine, then let the mixture sit for about 1 hour. This step will draw out moisture and help retain their crunch.

Step 2: Make the Pickling Brine

In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sugar dissolves, remove the saucepan from heat. The aroma will be tangy and sweet—a true indicator of the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Drain and Rinse

After an hour, drain the cucumber and onion mixture, and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This is crucial to ensure your pickles do not become overly salty.

Step 4: Combine and Pack

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers and onions with the warm pickling brine, tossing to ensure everything is well coated. Next, carefully pack the mixture into clean, sterile canning jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top. Pour the remaining brine over the pickles until they are fully submerged.

Step 5: Seal and Chill

Seal the jars tightly with lids and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in the refrigerator. The pickles will be ready to eat after about 24 hours; however, for best flavor, allow them to sit for about a week.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Bread and Butter Pickles

Choosing the right cucumbers is essential. Opt for fresh, firm cucumbers for a crisp bite. English or Kirby cucumbers are excellent choices due to their thinner skins and minimal seeds.

Experimenting with spices can elevate your pickles. You can introduce flavors such as coriander, dill, or fennel seeds based on your preferences. Adding spices can create a distinctive twist on traditional recipes, making your sweet pickles even more unique.

To achieve a beautiful presentation, consider layering the cucumber and onion slices in jars. This will give your pickles an appealing aesthetic, showcasing the vibrant hues of the cucumbers.

Flavor Pairing Suggestions

Bread and butter pickles pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try them as a zesty complement to grilled burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or alongside a charcuterie board. They can also add a refreshing crunch to salads or as a garnish in cocktails like Bloody Marys.

Variations

If you’re looking to cater to dietary preferences, consider using agave syrup or stevia for a low-sugar version. For those preferring a vegan option, ensure the vinegar used is plant-based, as most are.

Conclusion

Creating your own bread and butter pickles at home is not only a delightful culinary project but also a way to impress family and friends with home-canned goodness. The sweet and tangy flavor, combined with the satisfying crunch, makes these pickles irresistible. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into the world of pickling. You’ll find it to be an enjoyable experience filled with delicious rewards.

Don’t forget to share the joy of these homemade treats with your loved ones or social followers! Happy pickling!