Delicious Bread and Butter Pickle Recipes

Bread and butter pickles are a sweet and tangy treat that add a burst of flavor to any meal. They’re incredibly versatile, perfect for sandwiches, burgers, charcuterie boards, or simply enjoyed straight from the jar. In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating history of these delightful pickles, delve into various Bread And Butter Pickle Recipes, and share some expert tips to help you achieve pickling perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned pickler or just starting out, you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds here. So grab your jars and cucumbers, and let’s get pickling!

The Sweet and Tangy History of Bread and Butter Pickles

Ever wonder where the curious name “bread and butter pickles” comes from? Contrary to what some might think, it has nothing to do with pickles sandwiched between slices of bread. The name actually originated during the Great Depression. Farmers, struggling to make ends meet, would barter their homemade pickles, often sweetened with sugar and spices, for staples like bread and butter. These pickles, with their unique sweet and sour profile, quickly became a beloved staple, and the name stuck. Isn’t that a fascinating little slice of culinary history?

Classic Bread and Butter Pickle Recipes

Ready to try your hand at making these delectable pickles? Let’s start with a classic bread and butter pickle recipe. This recipe is a perfect starting point, and you can easily customize it to your liking.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pickling salt
• 4 cups ice water
• 2 1/2 cups white vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp celery seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl. Sprinkle with pickling salt and add the ice water. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This crucial step draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, resulting in a crispier pickle.
2. Drain the cucumbers and onions and rinse thoroughly under cold water.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the boiling brine. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Pack the pickles and brine into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids and bands.
6. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.

Classic Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe

Spicy Bread and Butter Pickle Recipes: Adding a Kick

Want to spice things up a bit? Adding a few simple ingredients can transform your bread and butter pickles into a fiery delight. One of my favorite additions is a few slices of jalapeño or other hot peppers. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine for a subtle heat. How much heat you add is entirely up to you – feel free to experiment!

Bread and Butter Pickles with Dill: A Fresh Twist

Dill and pickles are a match made in heaven. Adding fresh dill to your bread and butter pickles brings a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the sweet and tangy flavors beautifully. Simply add a few sprigs of fresh dill to each jar before processing.

Dill-Infused Bread and Butter Pickles

Quick Bread and Butter Pickles: For the Impatient Pickler

Short on time? You can make a quick version of bread and butter pickles that doesn’t require canning. Simply skip the boiling water bath process and store the pickles in the refrigerator. These refrigerator pickles will be ready to enjoy in just a few days and will last for several weeks in the fridge.

Beyond the Jar: Creative Uses for Bread and Butter Pickles

Bread and butter pickles are more than just a condiment; they’re a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Try chopping them up and adding them to potato salad or coleslaw for a tangy twist. They also make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs. Ever tried adding them to a grilled cheese? You won’t be disappointed!

Delicious Burger with Bread and Butter Pickles

Troubleshooting Your Bread and Butter Pickles

Sometimes, even the best-laid plans can go awry. If your pickles turn out soft, it’s likely due to not removing enough moisture from the cucumbers before pickling. Ensure you follow the salting and chilling process diligently. If your pickles are too salty, you may have used too much pickling salt. Adjust the amount in your next batch.

FAQs about Bread and Butter Pickles

Q: What type of cucumbers should I use for bread and butter pickles?
A: Pickling cucumbers are ideal for bread and butter pickles due to their smaller size and thinner skin.

Q: Can I reuse the brine from bread and butter pickles?
A: While you can reuse the brine once, it’s generally recommended to make fresh brine for each batch for optimal flavor and safety.

Q: How long do canned bread and butter pickles last?
A: Properly canned bread and butter pickles can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place.

The Joy of Homemade Bread and Butter Pickles

Making your own bread and butter pickles is a rewarding experience. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of opening a jar of your own homemade pickles and savoring the sweet, tangy, and perfectly spiced flavors. So, gather your ingredients, follow these bread and butter pickle recipes, and enjoy the fruits (or rather, pickles) of your labor!