Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

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Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that brings a burst of tangy sweetness to any meal. These pickles are perfect for adding a crunchy, flavorful bite to sandwiches, burgers, or simply enjoying as a snack. Unlike traditional pickling methods, refrigerator pickles are quick to prepare and don’t require any canning. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create these delightful pickles.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs cucumbers (see Note 1)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 10 whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (yellow, black, or a mix of both)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
  2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also use a mandoline for uniform slices.

Step 2: Make the Brine

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar.
  2. Add the whole cloves, mustard seed, turmeric, red pepper flakes, and celery seed to the saucepan.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium-high, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a boil and the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
  4. Once the brine reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Pack the Jars

  1. Place the sliced cucumbers into clean, sterilized jars. You can use mason jars or any other airtight containers.
  2. Pack the cucumbers tightly but leave some space at the top of the jars.

Step 4: Add the Brine

  1. Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers in the jars, making sure the cucumbers are fully submerged.
  2. Leave a little headspace at the top of the jar to allow for expansion.

Step 5: Seal and Refrigerate

  1. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
  2. Let the jars cool to room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator.
  3. Allow the pickles to marinate in the brine for at least 24 hours before serving for the best flavor. The pickles will continue to develop flavor over time and can be enjoyed for up to 2 months.

Note 1: Choosing Cucumbers

  • For the best results, use small, firm cucumbers such as Kirby or pickling cucumbers. These varieties maintain their crunchiness better than larger cucumbers.

Conclusion

Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a simple and delicious way to enjoy homemade pickles without the need for extensive canning equipment. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the subtle spices, makes these pickles a perfect addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy these crunchy, flavorful pickles that are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade pickles and savor the taste of this classic treat!