Elevate Your Sandwiches: How To Make Bread Butter Pickles That Will Transform Your Lunchtime Routine

Bread and butter pickles, with their sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor, have long been a staple in American kitchens. Their versatility makes them a perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, salads, and even charcuterie boards. But what if you could elevate this classic pickle to new heights with a modern twist? This blog post will guide you through the process of making bread butter pickles with a few unexpected ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients:

• 12 medium cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cucumbers:

• Start by washing and slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds or spears, depending on your preference.
• Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle them with salt.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• This process, known as salting, helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, resulting in a crispier pickle.

2. Making the Pickling Liquid:

• In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, celery seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugars.
• Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

3. Combining the Cucumbers and Pickling Liquid:

• Drain the salted cucumbers and rinse them thoroughly with cold water.
• Transfer the drained cucumbers to a large bowl.
• Pour the cooled pickling liquid over the cucumbers, ensuring they are completely submerged.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

4. Adding the Fresh Herbs:

• After 24 hours, add the chopped fresh dill and parsley to the bowl of pickles.
• Stir gently to combine and distribute the herbs evenly throughout the pickle mixture.

5. Canning the Pickles:

• If you wish to preserve your bread butter pickles for longer, you can can them using a hot water bath method.
• Sterilize glass jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Pack the pickles and pickling liquid into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
• Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
• Place the jars in a large pot filled with hot water, ensuring the jars are completely submerged.
• Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for the recommended time according to your altitude.
• Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the pot and allow them to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Bread Butter Pickles:

• Choose firm and fresh cucumbers for the best results.
• Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, to create unique flavor profiles.
• Add a touch of heat with extra red pepper flakes or a serrano pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use a variety of fresh herbs, such as basil, thyme, or oregano, to add depth and complexity to the flavor.
• If you don’t have time to can the pickles, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Soft Pickles: Ensure you salt the cucumbers properly before pickling. Salting helps draw out excess moisture, resulting in crispy pickles.
• Bland Pickles: Use a combination of different spices and herbs to create a well-balanced flavor profile. Experiment with different ratios to find your preferred taste.
• Cloudy Pickling Liquid: This can occur if you don’t sterilize the jars properly before canning. Make sure to follow the sterilization instructions carefully.

Final Note:

Bread butter pickles, with their sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor, are a versatile condiment that can elevate any meal. By following this step-by-step guide and incorporating a few unexpected ingredients, you can create a modern twist on this classic pickle that will impress your family and friends. So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and enjoy the delectable taste of homemade bread butter pickles!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long do bread butter pickles last?

• Properly canned bread butter pickles can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last for up to 2 weeks.

2. Can I use different types of cucumbers?

• Yes, you can use different varieties of cucumbers, such as Kirby or Persian cucumbers. However, make sure they are firm and fresh for the best results.

3. Can I make bread butter pickles without canning them?

• Yes, you can store bread butter pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks without canning them. However, canning is recommended for longer storage.

4. Can I adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the pickles?

• Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance.

5. What are some creative ways to use bread butter pickles?

• Bread butter pickles can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards, and even as a topping for tacos or burgers. They can also be chopped and added to dips and sauces for an extra burst of flavor.