Christmas Pickles - A Sweet Family Tradition
Get ready to dive into a heartwarming recipe that's all about family and sweet memories - Christmas Pickles. This cherished tradition has been passed down through generations, and the sweet, candied flavor of these pickles is like a trip down memory lane. As I whipped up a batch, it made me think about family and the importance of keeping traditions alive. So, let's make these delightful Christmas Pickles while savoring the moments and memories they bring.
Ingredients:
- 1 and 1/2 gallons of large cucumbers
- 1/2 cup pickling lime
- 1 and 1/2 quarts vinegar
- 5 pounds sugar
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 2 tablespoons pickling spice
- Green or red food coloring (if you want that festive touch)
Instructions:
Day 1: Cucumber Prep
- Start by peeling those 1 and 1/2 gallons of large cucumbers.
- Get rid of the seeds and chop the cucumbers into chunks.
- In a big container, mix 1 gallon of water with 1/2 cup of pickling lime.
- Let your cucumber chunks soak in this mix for a full 24 hours.
- After the soak, give those cucumbers a good rinse by washing them four times.
Day 2: Sweet Pickle Magic
- In a pot, toss together 1 and 1/2 quarts of vinegar, 5 pounds of sugar, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 tablespoon of celery seeds, and 2 tablespoons of pickling spice.
- If you want to add that Christmas touch, throw in a few drops of green or red food coloring. Get festive!
- Bring this mixture to a boil and let it bubble away for 5 minutes. Be ready for a powerful aroma!
- Pour this sweet pickling potion over your washed cucumber chunks and let them kick it together for another 24 hours.
Day 3: The Big Finish
- After 24 hours, get your cucumbers and pickling mixture into a boiling frenzy. Let them simmer for a cozy 35 minutes.
- While everything's hot, carefully scoop those pickles into sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars while they're still warm; they'll lock in all that goodness as they cool down.
As you enjoy these Christmas Pickles, take a moment to remember the good times with your loved ones and the special connections that recipes like this can create. These pickles aren't just about their sweet taste; they carry the spirit of family, tradition, and the beauty of passing down recipes from one generation to the next. Savor these pickles with a dash of nostalgia and a sprinkle of hope for peace, just like I do.
Note: This one's in loving memory of my granny, the inspiration behind this recipe and countless fond memories. May she find peace among the mountains she loved. ❤️🙏
