Discover the simple joys of making your own pickles with this Authentic Amish Refrigerator Pickles recipe. These pickles are crisp, tangy, and perfectly seasoned with a delightful blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Unlike traditional pickled vegetables, these require no cooking and are ready to enjoy in just 24 hours. Ideal for adding a zesty touch to sandwiches or as a standalone snack, these refrigerator pickles capture the essence of homemade simplicity and flavor.
Easy and Flavorful Amish Refrigerator Pickles
This recipe is not only straightforward but also customizable to your taste preferences. Whether you include onions and peppers or opt for cucumbers alone, each bite is guaranteed to be bursting with flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 24 hours
Total Time: 24 hours 15 minutes
Servings: Makes about 2 quarts
Equipment Needed:
- 2 quart-sized jars
- Large measuring cup or mixing bowl
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup green pepper, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup cider vinegar
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 2 tablespoons salt
- Cold tap water to fill jars
Directions:
- Prepare the Jars: Layer the sliced cucumbers, green peppers, and onions into two quart-sized jars. You can arrange them in alternating layers to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Mix the Pickling Liquid: In a large measuring cup or bowl, combine the cider vinegar, white sugar, celery seed, and salt. Stir the mixture well. The sugar won’t dissolve completely at this stage.
- Add Liquid to Jars: Pour the vinegar mixture over the sliced vegetables in each jar, distributing it evenly.
- Fill Jars with Water: Add cold tap water to fill the jars to the top, ensuring the vegetables are completely submerged.
- Shake and Chill: Secure the lids on the jars and gently shake them a few times to mix the ingredients. Place the jars in the refrigerator.
- Ready to Eat: Let the pickles sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. They are ready to eat after this period but taste best if consumed within a week or two.
- Enjoy with Variations: As you reach the end of the vegetables, you can add tomato wedges or slices to the leftover pickling liquid and let them sit overnight for an extra treat. This liquid can also be reused to pickle hot peppers or other vegetables.
These Amish Refrigerator Pickles are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a fresh, homemade alternative to store-bought pickles. They’re unbelievably easy to make and even more delicious to enjoy. Whether you’re serving them alongside a sandwich or as part of a larger meal, they’re sure to impress with their crisp texture and vibrant flavors.