Best Easy 14 Day Sweet Pickle Recipe
If you love the satisfying crunch and sweet tanginess of pickles, then you’re in for a treat! Making your own sweet pickles at home is not only a fun and rewarding experience, but it also ensures that you have control over the ingredients and flavors. This easy 14-day sweet pickle recipe will have you hooked with its delicious taste and simple preparation method.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds pickling cucumbers
– 2 cups white vinegar
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons pickling spice
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the pickling cucumbers thoroughly. Remove any dirt or debris and trim off the ends. Slice the cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, pickling spice, mustard seeds, peppercorns, garlic, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt.
3. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This step helps infuse the flavors into the liquid.
4. Add the cucumber slices to the pot and gently stir to coat them with the pickling liquid. Allow the cucumbers to simmer in the liquid for 5 minutes, or until they turn slightly translucent.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the pot with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it sit undisturbed for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
6. After 24 hours, transfer the pickles and liquid to sterilized jars, making sure to distribute the spices and garlic evenly. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate them for at least 14 days before enjoying.
7. After the 14-day waiting period, your sweet pickles will be ready to eat! Serve them as a snack, add them to sandwiches, or enjoy them alongside your favorite grilled meats.
Now, let’s move on to some common questions about this delicious sweet pickle recipe:
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers are preferred for their crisp texture and smaller size.
2. How long will these sweet pickles last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in airtight jars, these sweet pickles can last for up to 3 months in the refrigerator.
3. Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet pickle, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
4. Can I reuse the pickling liquid for another batch?
Yes, you can reuse the pickling liquid for another batch of pickles. Just make sure to strain it to remove any solids and bring it to a boil before adding the cucumbers.
5. Can I add other spices or herbs to the pickling liquid?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your sweet pickles.
6. Can I make these pickles without garlic?
If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it from the recipe without affecting the overall taste.
7. Can I make a smaller batch of these sweet pickles?
Certainly! You can easily halve or quarter the recipe to make a smaller batch that suits your needs.
Now that you have the recipe and all your questions answered, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start pickling! Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own delicious sweet pickles and impress your friends and family with your homemade culinary skills.