We love the sweet and tangy hit of this Fickle Pickle recipe. It’s a playful twist on classic pickles that adds a dash of excitement to our spread. We can’t resist the vibrant color and refreshing crunch that instantly elevates any meal
We first fell for Fickle Pickles when we discovered their secret blend of spices. Their bold flavor makes them perfect for snacking straight from the jar. They also pair beautifully with burgers subs or even a homemade charcuterie board
Tools And Equipment
We gather a few essential items to ensure smooth steps in our Fickle Pickle Recipe. We arrange everything before we begin. That practice keeps our space tidy and our workflow efficient.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Stockpot | We heat our pickling liquid here. Its tall shape prevents spills. |
| Sharp Knife | We slice our cucumbers with precision to maintain consistent thickness. |
| Cutting Board | We protect our countertops and keep our produce in place. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | We measure sugar vinegar and spices accurately for the right sweet and tangy balance. |
| Sterilized Mason Jars | We store our Fickle Pickles in these jars. The tight seal preserves fresh flavors. |
| Tongs or Jar Lifter | We handle hot jars safely to avoid burns or spillage. |
| Kitchen Towels | We wipe off excess moisture from jars and cucumbers. |
We confirm that all items are sanitized. That extra step preserves the bold flavors and crisp texture in each jar.
Ingredients
Below we have the key ingredients for our bold and tangy Fickle Pickles:
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 8 medium | Washed and thinly sliced |
| White onion | 1 large | Peeled and thinly sliced |
| White vinegar | 2 cups | N/A |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 cup | N/A |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | N/A |
| Pickling salt | 2 tablespoons | N/A |
| Water | 3 cups | N/A |
| Black peppercorns | 1 tablespoon | Lightly crushed if preferred |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon | N/A |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1 teaspoon | For added heat |
We rely on both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar to create a balanced tang. We prefer pickling salt because it lacks additives that can affect the brining process. Sliced onion boosts overall flavor. We add red pepper flakes if we want a subtle kick.
Directions
Here is how we transform Fickle Pickle ingredients into crisp sweet bites. We follow three key steps to ensure fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
Prep
- Rinse each cucumber under cool running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Slice off the stem ends and cut the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds.
- Peel the large white onion. Slice it into thin rings that fit neatly alongside the cucumber slices.
- Arrange the slices on a tray. Keep them nearby so we can pack them quickly once the brine is ready.
Make The Brine
- Measure both vinegars sugar pickling salt and water into a large stockpot. Stir them to dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors balanced.
- Add optional spices like black peppercorns or red pepper flakes. Stir for 1 minute to release their aromatics.
- Remove the stockpot from heat. Let the brine rest uncovered for 5 minutes.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep | 15 minutes |
| Simmer Brine | 5 minutes |
| Rest Brine | 5 minutes |
Pack And Pickle
- Arrange the cucumber and onion slices in sterilized jars. Layer them to maximize space without crushing the slices.
- Ladle the warm brine into each jar. Cover all the slices to preserve even flavors.
- Tap the jars gently on the counter. This removes air bubbles and helps the brine coat every slice.
- Secure the lids. Let the jars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate the sealed jars for at least 24 hours. This resting period develops the bold sweet-tangy flavor that makes our Fickle Pickle so irresistible.
Storing And Serving
We store our Fickle Pickles in sterilized mason jars. We seal them tightly then place them in the refrigerator to allow their sweet and tangy flavor to intensify. We avoid leaving them in warm areas to maintain their crisp texture and bold flavor. We also keep each jar upright and open it only when we are ready to enjoy our pickles.
Below is a quick reference for storage duration:
| Storage Condition | Recommended Duration |
|---|---|
| Unopened jar | Up to 4 weeks in the fridge |
| Opened jar | Use within 2 weeks |
We love serving these pickles with sandwiches subs burgers and as part of a charcuterie board. We often place them on a small plate with sliced ham cheese and crackers. We also enjoy snacking on them straight from the jar whenever we crave a crunchy treat.
Conclusion
We love how this Fickle Pickle recipe brings a sweet tang and bold crunch to any meal. Its versatility makes it perfect for quick snacks or as a lively addition to our favorite dishes. We simply cut pack and chill and soon we have a crisp and vibrant batch that brightens our table. Our biggest tip is to keep tools clean and follow the steps closely so every jar stays fresh and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Fickle Pickles special?
Fickle Pickles stand out for their sweet and tangy flavor, vibrant color, and refreshing crunch. They’re made with a blend of white and apple cider vinegar, plus sugar and pickling salt to ensure a balanced tang and bold taste. The unique spices elevate their flavor, making them a tasty addition to sandwiches, burgers, or snack boards.
What equipment do I need to make them?
You’ll need a large stockpot to heat your pickling liquid, a sharp knife for slicing cucumbers and onions, and sterilized mason jars for storage. Keeping everything clean helps preserve freshness and flavor.
How do I achieve the perfect brine?
Combine white and apple cider vinegar, sugar, pickling salt, and water. Gently simmer until the sugar and salt dissolve. Both vinegars contribute unique tang, while pickling salt keeps the brine pure. Optional spices like black or red pepper flakes add extra heat.
How long do Fickle Pickles last?
Store unopened jars in the fridge for up to 4 weeks. Once opened, it’s best to use them within 2 weeks for peak freshness and crunch. Always refrigerate to maintain texture and taste.
Can I customize the flavor?
Yes! Feel free to add more spices such as whole peppercorns or red pepper flakes for a kick. Adjust sugar levels for extra sweetness or reduce it for more tang. Experiment with fresh herbs like dill for a personalized twist.
How should I serve my Fickle Pickles?
They pair perfectly with sandwiches, subs, burgers, and charcuterie boards. You can also enjoy them with ham, cheese, and crackers or snack on them straight from the jar for a crunchy treat.