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–+ servings
Pickles from Loreena
This classic sweet pickle recipe brings back flavors from a simpler time. Likely handwritten decades ago, it reflects traditional preservation techniques using vinegar, sugar, and spices. The recipe involves soaking the pickles overnight, then cooking them with a flavorful spiced vinegar mixture, perfect for keeping them crisp and tasty. Sweet pickles like these are ideal as a tangy side, in sandwiches, or on charcuterie boards, and they continue to be a staple in Southern kitchens.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Soaking Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Course Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 10 pint jars
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 qt vinegar
  • 4 cups brown sugar
  • 3 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp celery seeds
  • 3 lbs Cucumbers
  • Salt water (for soaking)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Soak the Pickles

  • Slice or leave pickles whole depending on preference
  • Soak in salt water overnight

Step 2: Prepare the Vinegar Mixture

  • Combine vinegar, turmeric, brown sugar, celery seed, and ginger in a saucepan
  • Heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling

Step 3: Drain and Cook Pickles

  • Drain pickles from salt water
  • Place pickles into the hot vinegar mixture
  • Let come to a boil

Step 4: Can the Pickles

  • Pack pickles into sterilized jars while hot
  • Seal jars immediately and let cool

Tips

  • Add sliced onions for extra flavor.
  • Use apple cider vinegar for a mellower, fruitier taste.
  • Add mustard seed or celery seed for more depth.
  • Reduce sugar for a less sweet pickle.
  • Add chili flakes for heat.
  • Use small cucumbers for crispier results.
  • Add turmeric last to avoid staining surfaces.
  • Let jars sit 1–2 weeks for full flavor development.
  • Try adding whole cloves or allspice for a warm spice version.

Nutrition

Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 0.2gSodium: 520mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 90IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword canning, family recipes, handwritten, heirloom, old-fashioned baking, pickles, pickling, retro sweets, sweet pickles, vintage recipe
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