How to Make Bread and Butter Pickles: A Delicious Recipe Guide
Bread and butter pickles are a classic favorite, known for their perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. These pickles are incredibly versatile, adding a delightful crunch to sandwiches, burgers, or even enjoyed straight from the jar. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this delicious condiment at home, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.
What Are Bread and Butter Pickles?
Bread and butter pickles are sweet pickles that are typically made with cucumbers, onions, and a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices. The origin of the name “bread and butter” is somewhat of a mystery, but it’s believed that these pickles were often served with bread and butter sandwiches during the Great Depression, when food was scarce and people needed to make simple, filling meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pickles:
- 6 cups cucumbers (about 2-3 medium cucumbers), thinly sliced
- 2 cups onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup salt
For the Pickling Brine:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Colander
- Large saucepan
- Canning jars with lids and rings
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumbers and onions, aiming for uniform slices to ensure even pickling. A mandoline slicer can be particularly helpful here, but a sharp knife will do just fine.
2. Salt the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Sprinkle the salt over the vegetables and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit for about 1-2 hours. This step helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, which keeps the pickles crisp.
3. Rinse and Drain
After the resting period, rinse the cucumbers and onions under cold water to remove the excess salt. Drain them thoroughly in a colander and set aside.
4. Prepare the Pickling Brine
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seeds, turmeric, celery seeds, ground cloves, and black pepper. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved and the brine begins to simmer.
5. Add the Vegetables to the Brine
Once the brine is simmering, add the drained cucumbers and onions to the saucepan. Stir the mixture well to ensure all the vegetables are coated in the brine. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, until the cucumbers begin to turn a slightly darker shade of green and become translucent.
6. Pack the Jars
While the pickles are simmering, prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Once sterilized, carefully pack the hot cucumbers and onions into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged.
7. Seal and Process the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids and rings on the jars, screwing them on just until fingertip-tight. If you’re planning to store the pickles for an extended period, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. If you plan to enjoy them right away, you can skip this step and store the pickles in the refrigerator.
8. Let the Pickles Cure
For the best flavor, let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before opening. This allows the cucumbers to fully absorb the flavors of the brine. However, they’ll be even better after a week or two.
Enjoy Your Homemade Bread and Butter Pickles
Your bread and butter pickles are now ready to enjoy! They make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish with your favorite meals. Plus, these homemade pickles also make a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. The sweet and tangy taste of these pickles is sure to become a staple in your pantry. Happy pickling!
