You’ve stumbled upon the ultimate bread and butter pickles recipe that’s about to revolutionize your sandwich game. Yummy doesn’t even begin to cover it!
Why This Recipe Works
- The perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that makes these pickles irresistibly delicious.
- Crisp texture achieved through a precise brining process that ensures your pickles stay crunchy.
- Simple ingredients that come together to create a complex flavor profile, proving that sometimes less is more.
- Versatile usage, from sandwiches to salads, making them a must-have in your fridge.
- A foolproof method that guarantees perfect pickles every time, even for beginners.
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (about 3-4 medium cucumbers)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Canning jars with lids
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cucumbers and Onions
Start by slicing your cucumbers and onions thinly. A mandoline slicer can give you uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just fine. Combine them in a large bowl, sprinkle with kosher salt, and toss to coat. Let them sit for about 2 hours. This process draws out excess water, ensuring your pickles stay crisp. Tip: Cover the bowl with a clean towel to keep everything clean while it sits.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain
After 2 hours, rinse the cucumbers and onions under cold water to remove the salt. Drain well and squeeze out any excess water. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Make the Pickling Liquid
In a medium saucepan, combine white vinegar, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, ground turmeric, and ground cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugars dissolve. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Combine and Jar
Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the pickling liquid, stirring to ensure they’re fully coated. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, transfer everything into clean canning jars, making sure the pickles are fully submerged in the liquid. Tip: Use a funnel to avoid spills and make the process cleaner.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let the jars cool to room temperature before sealing them with lids. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before eating to allow the flavors to develop fully. These pickles will keep in the fridge for up to 2 months, if they last that long!
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their bread and butter pickles to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, experimenting with the thickness of your cucumber slices can change the texture; thicker slices offer more crunch, while thinner slices absorb more flavor. Second, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Third, for an extra crisp pickle, add a grape leaf to each jar before sealing; the tannins in the leaves help maintain firmness. Lastly, always use fresh spices for the best flavor; old spices can make your pickles taste flat.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the pickling liquid for a kick.
- Garlic Bread and Butter Pickles: Include a few cloves of minced garlic for a savory twist.
- Sweet Heat Pickles: Increase the brown sugar and add a dash of hot sauce for a sweet and spicy version.
- Dill Bread and Butter Pickles: Mix in fresh dill for a flavor that bridges classic dill pickles and bread and butter pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar if you prefer a slightly fruitier taste. However, keep in mind that apple cider vinegar may darken your pickles slightly over time. The acidity levels are similar, so the substitution won’t affect the pickling process.
How long do these pickles need to sit before eating?
For the best flavor, let your pickles sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before eating. This waiting period allows the cucumbers to fully absorb the pickling liquid’s flavors, resulting in a more delicious pickle. Patience is key!
Can I can these pickles for long-term storage?
This recipe is designed for refrigerator pickles, which means they’re not suitable for traditional canning and shelf storage. For safety, always store them in the refrigerator and consume within 2 months. If you’re interested in canning pickles, look for a recipe specifically designed for that purpose.
Summary
These bread and butter pickles are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious condiment ready to elevate your meals. Whether you’re a pickle pro or a first-timer, this recipe is sure to impress.