Introduction
Have you ever wondered why homemade bread and butter pickles taste dramatically different from store-bought varieties? These classic pickles represent a culinary tradition that transforms simple cucumbers into a tangy, sweet delicacy that can elevate any sandwich or charcuterie board. Our comprehensive classic bread and butter pickles recipe will guide you through creating the most delectable homemade pickles that capture the essence of traditional preservation techniques.
Ingredients List
- 4-5 medium cucumbers, preferably pickling varieties
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 4-5 whole cloves of garlic
Timing
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Pickling Time: 24-48 hours
Total Time: Approximately 48 hours
Yield: 3-4 mason jars of pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. A mandoline slicer works best for consistent thickness, ensuring even pickling and optimal crunch. For extra crisp pickles, soak cucumber slices in ice water for 30 minutes before processing.
Step 2: Salt and Drain
In a large bowl, layer cucumber and onion slices, generously sprinkling kosher salt between layers. Let the mixture sit for 2 hours to draw out excess moisture. This crucial step helps maintain the signature crunch of bread and butter pickles.
Step 3: Prepare the Brine
In a large saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to ensure the sugar completely dissolves. The aromatic blend of spices will create a complex, tangy-sweet flavor profile.
Step 4: Pickle and Preserve
Rinse the salted cucumber and onion mixture thoroughly to remove excess salt. Pack the slices into sterilized mason jars and pour the hot brine over them, ensuring complete coverage. Leave 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Allow jars to cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate. For optimal flavor development, wait at least 24 hours before consuming. Properly stored, these pickles will remain delicious for up to 4 weeks.
Nutritional Information
Per 1/4 cup serving:
– Calories: 35
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Sodium: 250mg
– Fiber: 0.5g
Healthier Alternatives
For a lower-sugar version, replace some sugar with stevia or use a sugar substitute. You can also reduce sodium by using less salt during the initial cucumber preparation.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles are perfect alongside burgers, sandwiches, or as part of a charcuterie board. They also make an excellent garnish for barbecue dishes and can be chopped into potato salads for added tang.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-salting: Always rinse cucumbers thoroughly after the salting process
- Uneven Slicing: Use a mandoline for consistent thickness
- Impatience: Allow at least 24 hours for flavor development
Storing Tips
Store pickles in sealed mason jars in the refrigerator. Always use clean utensils when removing pickles to prevent contamination. They will maintain peak flavor and texture for up to 4 weeks.
Conclusion
Creating classic bread and butter pickles is more than a recipe—it’s a delightful culinary adventure that connects you with traditional preservation techniques. With practice, you’ll develop your unique twist on this beloved pickle variety.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cucumbers?
While pickling cucumbers work best, you can experiment with English or Persian cucumbers. Avoid waxed varieties, as they won’t absorb the brine effectively.
How long do homemade pickles last?
Refrigerated bread and butter pickles will maintain quality for 3-4 weeks when stored properly in sealed containers.
Can I make these pickles without sugar?
Sugar is crucial for the classic bread and butter pickle flavor. However, you can use alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-calorie version.