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Flavorful Sweet and Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe Easy Homemade Refrigerator Pickles with Turmeric

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A simple and quick recipe for sweet and spicy bread and butter refrigerator pickles enhanced with turmeric for a warm color and subtle earthy depth. Perfectly balanced with sweetness, tang, and a gentle heat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Kirby cucumbers, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon celery seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (for salting cucumbers and onions)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for brine)

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers and onions into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of kosher salt over the cucumber and onion slices. Toss gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 1 hour at room temperature to draw out excess moisture.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups apple cider vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon celery seeds, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves.
  4. Rinse the salted cucumbers and onions under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
  5. Pack the cucumber and onion slices tightly into clean glass jars. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
  6. Seal the jars tightly with lids and let cool to room temperature. Then place them in the refrigerator.
  7. Let the pickles chill for at least 48 hours before eating to allow flavors to develop. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Salting the cucumbers and onions for an hour is key to keeping the pickles crisp. Pour the brine hot over the vegetables to slightly cook and infuse spices but do not boil the veggies. Turmeric powder stains easily, so wear gloves or wash hands and cutting boards immediately after use. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired heat. Store pickles refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: bread and butter pickles, refrigerator pickles, sweet and spicy pickles, turmeric pickles, homemade pickles, easy pickles, quick pickles