Refrigerator bread and butter pickles are a delicious and tangy treat that can be enjoyed all year round. Made with fresh cucumbers and just a few simple ingredients, these pickles are easy to make and require no canning or preserving. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore the process of making refrigerator bread and butter pickles from start to finish. Whether you’re a pickle aficionado or a beginner in the culinary world, this guide will equip you with all the information you need to create delectable homemade pickles.
Gathering the Ingredients
Choosing the Cucumbers
To ensure the best flavor and texture, it is important to select the right type of cucumbers for your pickles. Look for firm, unwaxed cucumbers at your local grocery store or farmers’ market. The size of the cucumbers is a matter of personal preference – you can choose smaller cucumbers for a crunchier pickle or larger ones for a juicier result.
Gathering the Other Ingredients
Apart from the cucumbers, you will need a handful of other ingredients to make refrigerator bread and butter pickles. These include white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, onion, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and kosher salt. Ensure that you have all these ingredients on hand before you start the pickling process.
Preparing the Cucumbers
Washing and Slicing
Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cool running water. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be present on the skin. Once the cucumbers are clean, you can slice them into your desired shape. Some people prefer thin round slices, while others like thicker spears. Take your time and slice them as per your preference. Remember that thicker slices may require longer pickling time to achieve the desired flavor.
Salting the Cucumbers
After slicing the cucumbers, transfer them to a large bowl and sprinkle them generously with kosher salt. The salt will help draw out excess water from the cucumbers, resulting in crispier pickles. Let the cucumbers sit in the salt for about an hour, then rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel before proceeding to the next step.
Making the Pickling Liquid
Combining the Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, finely sliced onion, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the sugar is fully dissolved. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about five minutes. The pickling liquid should be fragrant and slightly thickened.
Preparing the Jars
While the pickling liquid is simmering, prepare your jars for the pickles. You will need clean, sterilized jars with airtight lids. Wash the jars and lids with hot soapy water, then rinse them thoroughly. You can also run them through a dishwasher to ensure they are properly sanitized. After cleaning, allow the jars and lids to air dry or dry them with a clean kitchen towel.
Pickling the Cucumbers
Packing the Jars
Once the pickling liquid is ready and the jars are prepared, it’s time to pack the cucumbers into the jars. Carefully transfer the cucumber slices or spears to the jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure to cover them completely. Use a spoon or a clean utensil to remove any air bubbles trapped within the jars.
Cooling and Refrigerating
Allow the filled jars to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Once cooled, seal the jars tightly with the sterilized lids. Label the jars with the date of preparation to keep track of their freshness. After labeling, transfer the jars to the refrigerator and let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before consuming. During this time, the flavors will meld together, resulting in a deliciously tangy pickle.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
Refrigerator bread and butter pickles are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect as a side dish for burgers and sandwiches, can be added to salads for an extra burst of flavor, or even eaten straight out of the jar as a quick and refreshing snack. Let your imagination run wild and experiment with incorporating these pickles into your favorite dishes.
Storage Tips
When stored properly in the refrigerator, refrigerator bread and butter pickles can last for several weeks, if not months. Ensure that the lids are tightly sealed after each use to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the pickles may become softer over time, so it is recommended to consume them within a few weeks for the best texture and flavor.
In conclusion, making refrigerator bread and butter pickles at home is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort and no special canning equipment. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create your own batch of delicious pickles that will surely impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and start pickling – a delightful homemade treat awaits you!