Bread And Butter Fridge Pickles
It’s a pickle recipe with a funny name, but a long history. The story goes that a young woman used her pickles to barter with a local grocer in exchange for bread and butter. We love the story as much as we love the recipe! These fresh bread and butter pickles are so simple to whip up and add just the right crunch to sandwiches or burgers. We like to chop them up and stir them into potato or macaroni salad, and the kids think they’re a perfect snack right out of the jar. The best thing is that these sweet and tangy pickles don’t take weeks to marinate; they’re ready in 24 hours, making it easy to always have a jar or two in the fridge.
If you have a kitchen garden, these are a great way to use up an overflow of pickling cucumbers, but we love using those mini-cucumbers from the supermarket for slices that are just the right size for packing pint jars. This recipe makes two jars, but it’s easy to double to have extra pickles on hand for gifting a jar or two to that new neighbor. We like to bring a jar along to potlucks and barbecues. They’re always a big hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Bread and Butter Fridge Pickles are not only delicious but incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for adding a sweet and tangy crunch to your favorite dishes, from sandwiches to salads. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and don’t require any special canning skills, making them accessible for everyone.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large bowl
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Two pint jars with lids
Ingredients
- 10 medium mini-cucumbers, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 1/2 tablespoons coarse salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 pinch chili flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sprinkle coarse salt over cucumber slices in a large bowl. Stir gently to combine. Cover loosely and let sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugars, vinegars, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally until all sugar has dissolved.
- Rinse cucumbers in a colander under cold, running water. Shake the colander to remove excess water and return cucumbers to the bowl.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumber slices. Toss to mix, cover, and let rest for about an hour.
- Pack cucumbers into two pint jars. Divide liquid evenly between jars, ensuring all cucumber slices are covered. Screw lids onto jars.
- Refrigerate for 24 hours before using.
Tips for Success
- Ensure cucumbers are sliced evenly for consistent pickling.
- Allow pickles to refrigerate for the full 24 hours for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar and spice levels to suit your taste.
Additional Tips or Variations
For an extra kick, add more chili flakes or experiment with different spices like dill or garlic. You can also try using different types of vinegar for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These pickles are low in calories and fat, offering a sweet and tangy flavor without adding much to your daily calorie count. They are a great snack or side option for those looking to enjoy something light and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of mini-cucumbers?
A: Yes, regular cucumbers can be used, but make sure to slice them thinly and evenly.
Q: How long do these pickles last in the fridge?
A: These pickles should be good for up to two weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I make these pickles spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add more chili flakes or even a sliced jalapeño for added heat.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making these delightful Bread and Butter Fridge Pickles. They’re a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire and a wonderful way to preserve the bounty of cucumbers. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your variations and any creative ways you’ve found to enjoy them!
