Crunchy, tangy, and oh-so-addictive – that’s the delightful essence of homemade Fermented Bread and Butter Pickles. These fermented pickles boast a burst of flavor that makes them a perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, cheese platters, or as a zesty snack on their own. Embrace the art of fermentation with this easy-to-follow recipe that will have you creating a jar full of crispy pickles in no time.
**Fermented Bread And Butter Pickles**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds pickling cucumbers, sliced into rounds
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/2 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 2-3 dried red chili peppers (optional)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cucumbers:** Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. If the cucumbers are not organic, it’s recommended to peel them to remove any wax or residues.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, onion, garlic, dill, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and dried red chili peppers if using.
3. **Create Brine:** In a separate bowl, mix the water and sea salt until the salt is fully dissolved, creating a brine solution.
4. **Pack the Jar:** Pack the cucumber mixture tightly into a clean quart-sized mason jar. Pour the brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave about an inch of space between the brine and the top of the jar.
5. **Fermentation Process:** Place a fermentation weight on top of the cucumbers to keep them submerged in the brine. Seal the jar with a lid.
6. **Ferment:** Store the jar in a cool, dark place (ideally around 70°F/21°C) for 3-7 days, checking daily to make sure the cucumbers remain submerged. During fermentation, the cucumbers will develop a tangy flavor and their texture will become crunchy.
7. **Taste Test:** After 3 days, start tasting the pickles. Once they reach your desired level of tanginess, move the jar to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process.
8. **Enjoy:** Your Fermented Bread and Butter Pickles are now ready to enjoy! Serve them as a delicious addition to sandwiches, burgers, or salads. They also make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
By following this simple recipe, you’ll unlock the magic of fermented pickles that will elevate your culinary creations and bring a burst of homemade goodness to your kitchen. Experiment with different spices and flavors to customize your pickles to suit your taste preferences. Happy fermenting!
