When the summer sun starts to shine, I can’t help but dream about crisp, refreshing bites of homemade pickles. The delightful crunch of fresh English cucumbers soaking in a sweet and tangy brine never fails to brighten up even the simplest meals. You won’t believe how easy it is to craft “The Best Pickles Yet: English Cucumber Pickle Chips” right in your kitchen!
Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, these bread and butter pickle chips transform sandwiches from ordinary to extraordinary and make an irresistibly tasty snack straight out of the jar. A treasure to share at potlucks or as a thoughtful homemade gift, you’ll find countless uses for these little gems. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is here to rescue you from the mundane takeout routine. Let’s dive into this pickle-making adventure together, and soon you’ll find that sweet and sour bliss is just a jar away!
Why are Bread and Butter Pickles a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: You’ll love the blend of sweet and tangy that these pickle chips offer—they’re a burst of summer in every bite!
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious homemade pickles ready without any fuss.
Versatile uses: Perfect as a snack, on burgers, or as a sandwich topping, they’re bound to enhance any meal.
Crisp texture: The English cucumbers guarantee a delightful crunch that fast food just can’t compete with!
Gift-ready: These pickle chips make for an excellent homemade gift to delight friends and family.
The Best Pickles Yet: Ingredients
• Discover the secrets to crafting The Best Pickles Yet: English Cucumber Pickle Chips with this helpful ingredient list!
For the Pickles
- English Cucumbers – Opt for long, firm cucumbers with small seeds to ensure maximum crunch.
- Onions – Sweet onions work best; they enhance the flavor and add a lovely texture.
- Garlic – A whole clove per jar will infuse the brine with a delightful aromatic punch.
For the Brine
- Apple Cider Vinegar – It brings a balanced tartness that’s crucial for the sweet brine.
- Distilled White Vinegar – This vinegar helps balance acidity in your pickling solution.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for achieving that classic “bread and butter” pickle sweetness.
- Pickling Salt – Ensures proper brining and crisp texture; kosher salt can be used as a substitute.
For Seasoning
- Spices (mustard seeds, celery seeds, mustard powder, and coriander seeds) – These will bring depth and a subtle bite to your pickles, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Get ready to embark on a delightful pickling journey!
How to Make Bread and Butter Pickle Chips
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Prepare Cucumbers and Onions: Start by trimming the ends of your English cucumbers and slicing them into 1/8” thick rounds. Slice the onions too, then submerge both in a mixture of pickling salt and ice water for about 2 hours. This soaking really helps to keep them crisp! Afterward, drain and rinse them well.
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Make Brine: In a pot, combine apple cider vinegar, distilled white vinegar, granulated sugar, and your selected spices. Heat the mixture until it reaches a boil, letting the sweetness of the sugar dissolve completely into the vinegars.
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Cook Vegetables: Add the drained cucumber and onion slices to the pot of boiling brine. Give them a gentle stir and let them cook for about 3 minutes, just long enough to infuse with that delightful brine flavor.
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Jar the Pickles: Carefully fill your sterilized jars with the hot cucumber and onion mixture, packing it tightly. Then pour the hot brine over them, leaving about 1/2″ of headspace at the top.
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Seal and Process: Secure your lids on the jars, and process them in a boiling water canner for 5 minutes. If you’re making refrigerator pickles instead, simply boil the brine for 5 minutes after filling the jars and skip the canning process.
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Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely before checking the seals. After they’re cooled and sealed, label them and store in a cool, dark place. For the best flavor, wait at least 2 weeks before indulging in your tangy creations!
Optional: Try adding sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Bread and Butter Pickles
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Use Fresh Cucumbers: Always select firm, fresh English cucumbers with thin skins and small seeds to ensure your pickle chips are crisp and flavorful.
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Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking cucumbers and onions in ice water and pickling salt for 2 hours is essential to maintain their crunchiness and balance the flavors in your bread and butter pickles.
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Proper Canning Technique: Make sure to use new seals for canning, clean jar rims, and leave the right headspace when filling jars to prevent any mishaps during processing.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize your brine by adding more spices or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a small kick—experimenting is key to making the best pickles yet!
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Patience is Key: Allow your sealed pickles to cure for at least 2 weeks. This waiting period deepens their flavor and enhances their overall taste experience.
What to Serve with Homemade Bread and Butter Pickle Chips?
Elevate your meal experience with the perfect pairings for your delicious homemade pickles.
- Classic Sandwiches: The sweet and tangy flavor enhances every layer, making your favorite deli-style sandwiches even more enjoyable.
- Savory Burgers: Place these crunchy pickle chips on top of your juicy burger for an added zest that will delight your taste buds.
- Cheese Platters: Adding pickle chips brings a great contrast to creamy cheeses, balancing richness with their assertive flavors.
- Crispy Fish Tacos: The pickles act as a refreshing crunch against the tender fish, complementing each spicy bite perfectly.
- Charcuterie Boards: Serve them alongside cured meats and artisanal cheeses; their crunch and flavor tie the whole board together beautifully.
Perfect for those sun-soaked afternoons or cozy gatherings, these pickle chips are sure to keep your guests coming back for more! - Ice-Cold Beverages: Pair with a refreshing homemade lemonade or iced tea to cleanse the palate between bites of flavorful dishes.
- Rich Chocolate Desserts: For a surprising twist, serve these pickles with dark chocolate bites; their sweetness enhances the chocolate’s depth.
Bread and Butter Pickle Variations
Feel free to get creative with your pickles and make them your own!
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Vinegar Swap: Substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a unique flavor twist. The result is surprisingly delightful!
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Spicy Addition: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the brine for a spicy kick. A little heat can elevate the overall experience beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh dill, thyme, or even basil into the jars for a herbaceous note. This twist brightens the flavor profile and adds aromatic depth.
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Different Cucumbers: Try using Kirby or Persian cucumbers in place of English cucumbers for a varied texture. Each cucumber type offers its own crunch and flavor!
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Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the granulated sugar. For a less sweet variety, cut down the sugar to your taste make them extra tangy!
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic by adding more cloves or even roasted garlic for a smoother, sweeter flavor. Garlic brings a robust touch that complements the brine perfectly.
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Sweet Onion Variation: Use red onions instead of sweet onions for a beautiful color and slightly bolder flavor. The vibrant hue will make your pickles pop!
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Citrus Zing: Add slices of lemon or lime to the jar for a refreshing citrus burst. The brightness pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste experience.
There’s no limit to how you can personalize your pickles! Each variation opens the door to new flavor adventures.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Bread and Butter Pickle Chips are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors while saving time. You can prepare the cucumbers and onions by slicing and soaking them in the pickling salt and ice water up to 24 hours in advance to maintain their crispness. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before proceeding with the brine. Once jarred, the pickle chips can be stored for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator before they reach their peak flavor; the longer they sit, the better they taste! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pull them from the fridge and serve—easy and delicious homemade pickles that will elevate your meals with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Bread and Butter Pickle Chips
Room Temperature: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, they must be refrigerated.
Fridge: After opening, keep your homemade bread and butter pickle chips in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Consume within one month for the best flavor.
Freezer: Although pickles can be frozen, it may alter their texture. If you choose to do this, place them in airtight containers and consume within up to 6 months.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat pickles! Enjoy them cold straight from the jar or as a garnish for your favorite dishes.
The Best Pickles Yet: Bread and Butter Pickle Chips Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cucumbers for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting English cucumbers for your pickle chips, look for long, firm ones with smooth skin and small seeds. Avoid cucumbers that are dull or have dark spots, as these can signal overripeness. Choosing quality cucumbers will enhance the crunch and overall flavor of your bread and butter pickles.
How should I store my homemade pickle chips?
Once you’ve opened a jar, store your homemade bread and butter pickle chips in the refrigerator and consume them within one month for the best flavor. Unopened jars can be kept in a cool, dark place and will stay fresh for up to one year. Always remember to check the seals before storing!
Can I freeze my pickle chips?
Very! While freezing isn’t ideal for pickles due to potential texture changes, you can do it if needed. Pack the pickle chips in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just remember, after thawing, they may become softer, but they’ll still add flavor to your dishes!
What should I do if my pickle chips are too salty or mushy?
If your pickle chips end up too salty, try rinsing them gently under cold water before serving. This will help reduce some of the saltiness. For mushy pickles, ensure you steep the cucumbers and onions in ice water mixed with pickling salt for the full 2 hours, as this helps maintain their crispness. Also, avoid overcooking them during the brining process!
Are these pickles safe for my pets?
Unfortunately, pickles are not recommended for pets. The ingredients, especially garlic and high vinegar content, can be harmful to animals. Additionally, always double-check for ingredients that could pose a risk to anyone with allergies, as the spices and sugars used might affect individuals with specific dietary restrictions.
How long should I wait before enjoying my pickle chips?
I often recommend waiting at least 2 weeks for your bread and butter pickle chips to cure properly before enjoying them. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating that sweet and tangy profile that makes them so irresistible! Plus, the longer you wait, the more robust the taste becomes.
The Best Pickles Yet: Irresistible English Cucumber Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Cucumbers and Onions: Cut the ends off cucumbers, slice into 1/8" thick rounds, steep in pickling salt and ice water for about 2 hours.
- Make Brine: Combine apple cider vinegar, distilled white vinegar, granulated sugar, and spices in a pot. Bring to a boil.
- Cook Vegetables: Add drained cucumber and onion slices to the brine, cook for 3 minutes.
- Jar the Pickles: Fill sterilized jars with the mixture, pour hot brine over, leaving 1/2" headspace.
- Seal and Process: Secure lids and process jars in boiling water canner for 5 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Allow jars to cool completely, check seals, label, and store. Let sit for at least 2 weeks before consuming.