Ingredients
- Cucumbers (4-6 inches long): 4 pounds
- White Vinegar (5% acidity): 5 cups
- Granulated Sugar: 5 cups
- Onion, thinly sliced: 1 large
- Mustard Seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Celery Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place sliced cucumbers and sliced onions in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and cover with ice. Let stand for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
- Step 2: Drain the cucumber and onion mixture thoroughly and rinse under cold water. Drain again, pressing gently to remove excess water.
- Step 3: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Step 4: Add the drained cucumber and onion mixture to the boiling vinegar mixture. Return to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Step 5: Using sterilized jars and lids, pack the hot pickle mixture into the jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars.
- Step 6: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. After processing, turn off the heat, remove the canner lid, and let the jars sit in the hot water for 5 minutes before removing to a towel-lined surface to cool completely. Check for proper sealing after 24 hours.
Notes
- Refrigerate open jars of bread and butter pickles for optimal crispness and to maintain their sweet-tangy flavor.
- These pickles are not typically reheated, but their brine can add a unique tang when drizzled over grilled cheese or potato salad.
- Serve these homemade pickles alongside barbecue, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards for a sweet and tangy crunch.
- For a brighter, more pronounced flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the vinegar mixture during the simmering process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American