Ever wondered how to turn crisp cucumbers into a delightful treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors? Our candied cucumber pickles recipe will elevate your snacking experience and add a touch of homemade charm to your kitchen. These pickles are a refreshing twist on the classic dill version, offering a unique combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Perfect for adding a pop of sweetness to sandwiches, cheese boards, or simply enjoyed on their own, these candied cucumber pickles are sure to become a household favorite.
**Candied Cucumber Pickles**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
– 1 1/2 cups white sugar
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by preparing the cucumbers. Wash them thoroughly and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, mustard seeds, whole cloves, celery seeds, and turmeric. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
4. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the sliced cucumbers to the saucepan, stirring gently to coat them evenly with the sweet and tangy liquid.
6. Allow the cucumbers to cook in the mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften slightly but still maintain a crisp texture. Be careful not to overcook them.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the candied cucumber pickles cool to room temperature before transferring them, along with the liquid, to clean glass jars.
8. Seal the jars tightly with lids and place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and the pickles to reach their optimal sweetness.
9. Once chilled, your candied cucumber pickles are ready to enjoy. Serve them as a delightful snack, a flavorful addition to salads, or a unique accompaniment to sandwiches and charcuterie boards. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
With their irresistible blend of sweet and tangy flavors, these candied cucumber pickles are sure to add a burst of homemade goodness to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to elevate your everyday meals, these pickles are a versatile and delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Get creative with different dishes and enjoy the delightful crunch of these homemade candied cucumber pickles.
