Homemade refrigerator bread and butter pickles in a jar.

why make this recipe

Refrigerator bread and butter pickles are a delicious way to preserve cucumbers and enjoy their crunchiness year-round. They offer a sweet and tangy bite that can enhance sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Making pickles at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. Plus, they are simple to prepare and require no canning skills, making them perfect for any home cook.

how to make Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Ingredients:

Cucumbers
Onion
Sugar
Vinegar
Salt
Celery seed
Mustard seed
Turmeric

Directions:

Slice cucumbers and onions thinly.
In a bowl, layer the cucumbers and onions, sprinkling salt in between layers.
Let sit for 1 hour.
In a pot, combine sugar, vinegar, celery seed, mustard seed, and turmeric.
Heat until the sugar dissolves.
Pour the mixture over the cucumbers and onions.
Let cool and then transfer to jars.
Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

how to serve Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

These pickles are excellent as a snack or side dish. You can serve them on top of sandwiches, alongside burgers, or as an accompaniment to cheese and crackers. They also work well in salads, adding a burst of flavor to any meal.

how to store Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Store the pickles in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They will keep well for several weeks, and the flavors will improve as they sit. Just make sure to use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness.

tips to make Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

Use fresh, crisp cucumbers for the best texture.
Feel free to adjust the sugar and vinegar levels to suit your taste.
Experiment with adding spices like dill or garlic for a different flavor profile.

variation

You can make variations of bread and butter pickles by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the mix.

FAQs

Can I use any type of cucumber for this recipe?
Yes, however, pickling cucumbers, like Kirby cucumbers, are preferred because they are crisp and hold up well during the pickling process.

How long do these pickles last in the fridge?
Refrigerator bread and butter pickles can last for about 4 to 6 weeks when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I make these pickles without sugar?
You can reduce or omit sugar, but the pickles will be less sweet and may not have the traditional flavor profile. Consider using alternatives like honey or agave if you want a natural sweetener.