Old Fashioned Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles: A Delicious Twist on a Classic RecipeIntroductionAre you a fan of tangy and crunchy pickles that perfectly complement your favorite sandwiches and burgers? Look no further than old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles! These delectable homemade pickles offer a delightful blend of sweetness and tanginess that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this article, we will delve into the world of old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles, exploring their history, ingredients, preparation, and storage. So, let’s get started on this mouth-watering journey!Heading 1: The History of Old Fashioned Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

The Origin of Bread and Butter Pickles

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of bread and butter pickles. These pickles have their roots in the United States, with their origins dating back to the Great Depression era. During that time, people strived to make the most of their limited resources and reduce food waste. Enterprising homemakers concocted a recipe for pickles using cucumbers, onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices. These pickles were coined bread and butter pickles due to their popularity as a staple in sandwiches, particularly those made with bread and butter.

Heading 2: Ingredients for Old Fashioned Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

To create your own batch of old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Cucumbers

Choose fresh, firm cucumbers, preferably pickling cucumbers, as they have a crisp texture.

2. Onions

Opt for yellow or white onions to add a mild and slightly sweet flavor to your pickles.

3. Vinegar

Use distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, both of which provide the necessary acidity for pickling.

4. Sugar

Granulated white sugar acts as a sweetener and balances the tanginess of the vinegar.

5. Spices

Classic spices for bread and butter pickles include mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and black peppercorns. Feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your taste.

Heading 3: Preparation of Old Fashioned Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Step-by-Step Preparation Process

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles:

1. Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and onions. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.

2. Salt the Slices

In a bowl, combine the cucumber and onion slices with salt. Let them sit for an hour to draw out excess moisture.

3. Prepare the Pickling Liquid

In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, and your chosen spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

4. Add the Cucumber and Onion Slices

Rinse the cucumber and onion slices to remove the excess salt. Add them to the pickling liquid and simmer for a few minutes until they turn slightly translucent.

5. Cool and Store

Allow the pickles to cool completely before transferring them to clean, sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Heading 4: Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing and Enjoying Your Homemade Delights

Since these pickles are refrigerated, they can last for several weeks. However, we guarantee you won’t be able to resist finishing them off before then! To serve your homemade bread and butter pickles, try these suggestions:

1. Sandwiches and Burgers

Add a tangy crunch to your favorite sandwiches and burgers. The pickles’ sweet and tangy flavor pairs exceptionally well with savory ingredients.

2. Charcuterie Boards

Include your homemade pickles on charcuterie boards for a delightful contrast to cheeses, cured meats, and other accompaniments.

3. Relish Trays

Arrange your bread and butter pickles alongside other homemade or store-bought relishes for a vibrant and tangy assortment.

ConclusionIn conclusion, old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles bring a touch of nostalgia and culinary delight to your table. With their sweet and tangy flavor profile, these homemade pickles are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite meals. Whether you enjoy them in sandwiches, on charcuterie boards, or as part of a relish tray, these pickles are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, why not embark on this simple and rewarding culinary adventure and whip up a batch of old fashioned refrigerator bread and butter pickles?FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but pickling cucumbers are recommended for their crisp texture.2. How long do the pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.3. Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the pickles?Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar to suit your taste preferences.4. Can I reuse the pickling liquid for future batches?While reusing the pickling liquid may seem tempting, it’s best to create a fresh batch each time to ensure food safety.5. How long do the pickles stay fresh in the refrigerator?When stored in airtight containers, these pickles can stay fresh for several weeks in the refrigerator.