Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles: The Perfect Tangy and Sweet Snack
Discover the delightful taste of homemade refrigerator bread and butter pickles. These tangy and sweet pickles are easy to make and add a burst of flavor to any meal.
If you’re a fan of pickles, you’re in for a treat with this simple and delicious recipe for refrigerator bread and butter pickles. These pickles are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, making them a delightful snack to enjoy on their own or a tasty addition to sandwiches and salads. The best part is that they are quick and easy to prepare, and there’s no need for any canning process. Just whip up a batch, store them in the refrigerator, and enjoy their crispness and flavor for weeks!
Table of Content
Ingredients for Homemade Goodness
To make your own refrigerator bread and butter pickles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 cups thinly sliced pickling cucumbers
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pickling salt
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric
Directions to Pickle Perfection
Follow these easy steps to create your own refrigerator bread and butter pickles:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Sprinkle pickling salt over the vegetables and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, rinse the cucumbers and onions thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine white sugar, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and ground turmeric. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the cucumber and onion mixture to the saucepan. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the pickles and liquid to a quart-sized jar or an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.
Health Benefits of Homemade Pickles
These refrigerator bread and butter pickles offer more than just great taste:
- Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing snack.
- Vinegar is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
- Mustard seeds are a good source of selenium, which is essential for thyroid function and metabolism regulation.
- Celery seeds are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Pickling Tips for the Best Results
To ensure the best results and flavor, keep these tips in mind when making refrigerator bread and butter pickles:
- Choose fresh and firm pickling cucumbers to ensure crispness.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers and onions for quicker pickling.
- Use pickling salt, as it dissolves easily and helps draw out excess water from the cucumbers.
- Let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Serving Suggestions for Enjoying Pickles
Refrigerator bread and butter pickles are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Add them to your favorite sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chop them up and toss them into green salads for a tangy twist.
- Use them as a flavorful garnish for burgers and sliders.
- Enjoy them as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions about Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?
While pickling cucumbers are best for their firmness and size, you can use regular cucumbers if pickling cucumbers are not available. Just be sure to remove the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
2. How long do refrigerator bread and butter pickles last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, these pickles can last for up to 2 months.
3. Can I adjust the level of sweetness and tanginess?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, add more sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of vinegar.