Easy Homemade Bread And Butter Cucumber Pickles Recipe

When it comes to adding a touch of homemade charm to your meals, nothing beats a jar of freshly made bread and butter cucumber pickles. 🥒 These pickles are a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, with a subtle crunch that makes them irresistible. Perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a zesty side dish, they're incredibly easy to make right in your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own batch of bread and butter cucumber pickles that will leave your taste buds craving more!

Ingredients for Pickling 🌟

Creating these delicious pickles starts with gathering the right ingredients:

• 5½ cups thinly sliced pickling cucumbers 🥒 (about 1½ pounds)
• 1½ tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 cup thinly sliced sweet onion
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup white vinegar
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1½ teaspoons mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon celery seeds
• ⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric

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Note on Cucumbers:

When choosing cucumbers, opt for pickling cucumbers which are smaller and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for pickling due to their crunchiness. 🥒

Preparing the Cucumbers 🍴

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by rinsing the cucumbers thoroughly under cool running water. Trim the ends and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This uniform thickness ensures even pickling.

2. Layer with Salt: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and toss with kosher salt. This helps to draw out the moisture, enhancing the pickles' crunch.

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The Brine Solution 🍯

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or saucepan, combine the sugar, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugars have dissolved completely.

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4. Layer Cucumbers and Onions: While the brine is heating, layer the salted cucumbers and sliced onions in a clean, large jar or several smaller jars.

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Processing the Pickles 🧂

5. Pour the Hot Brine: Once the brine is ready, carefully pour it over the cucumbers and onions. Leave a little headspace at the top of the jar to allow for expansion during storage.

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6. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool to room temperature. You can then refrigerate the pickles, which will be ready to eat within 24 hours, or store them in the fridge for up to 3 months for flavor development.

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<p class="pro-note">🌱 Note: Always use clean, sterilized jars to prevent bacterial growth and ensure your pickles stay fresh.</p>

Customizing Your Pickles 🎨

Bread and butter pickles can be customized in various ways to suit different palates:

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeño slices for a spicy kick.

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with herbs like dill or fresh bay leaves for an aromatic touch.

• Sweetness Levels: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference for sweetness or tartness.

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Serving Suggestions 🍴

Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade bread and butter pickles:

• Sandwiches: Layer them in burgers or grilled cheese for an extra crunch and zesty flavor.
• Side Dish: Serve as a side to complement rich dishes like BBQ ribs or fried chicken.
• Charcuterie Boards: Add them to cheese and meat boards for a sweet and tangy contrast.

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Making your own bread and butter cucumber pickles at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also adds a personal touch to your culinary creations. With this easy recipe, you'll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time, offering a delightful taste of summer all year round.

Creating these pickles is not just about the end product; it's an experience in itself. The process of brining, pickling, and waiting for the flavors to meld is almost as enjoyable as the taste. Enjoy your homemade bread and butter pickles with the satisfaction of knowing you've crafted something special from simple, fresh ingredients.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What kind of cucumbers are best for pickling?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Pickling cucumbers, known for their crisp texture and smaller size, are ideal for making bread and butter pickles. They have fewer seeds and a better texture for pickling.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long do homemade pickles last?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>If properly refrigerated and sealed, homemade bread and butter pickles can last up to 3 months.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the brine to suit your taste. More sugar will yield sweeter pickles, while less will make them more tart.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>