| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 220 | 0.5g | 0g | 54g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 45g | 2g | 2g | 9.5g |
There is something incredibly fulfilling about sharing a recipe that truly speaks to you – one that has layers of flavor and an infusion of culture. This is why I’m so excited to share a recipe that ticks all those boxes for me – Pickles with Celery Seed.
A fusion of flavors
No matter the cuisine, coming together and sharing a meal with loved ones can easily become a cherished memory. For me, this recipe represents both my Gujarati roots and my Californian upbringing – a truly unique twist on a well-loved condiment. What I love about this recipe is that it’s a little like a pickle you might find in an authentic Indian household, but with elements that are distinctly American. It’s a beautiful melding of my two cultures and offers a refreshing side dish that is sure to be a hit at any meal.
The Health Benefits of Pickles with Celery Seed
Beyond its delightful flavor, the Pickles with Celery Seed recipe is packed full of health benefits. The cucumbers used are a great source of hydration, while the apple cider vinegar provides a healthy dose of probiotics to aid digestion. Moreover, the celery seeds add a unique flavor and are packed with antioxidants. They are also a great source of essential minerals like calcium, which is integral to bone health. I love when a recipe isn’t just delicious, but offers something nourishing for our bodies as well.
This delightful recipe is reminiscent of a classic bread-and-butter pickle, but with a little more personality. This salty-sweet accompaniment pairs wonderfully with a thick slice of sourdough or your favorite sandwich, adding a punch of flavor and crunch. The possibilities are endless – it can even elevate a simple Grilled Cheese Sandwich or can be eaten straight out of the jar!
The process of making these pickles is as gratifying as their taste – it’s easy, accessible and a wonderful way to preserve and create something of your own. It’s a recipe I hold dear to my heart and I hope that it’s a dish you will love and share with your family, just as I have with mine. Enjoy the delightful blend of cultures through the unique taste of Pickles with Celery Seed!
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of sliced pickling cucumbers
- 2 cups of sliced onions
- 1/4 cup of salt
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of celery seed
- 1 tablespoon of mustard seed
- 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
- Chilled water for soaking
Method
Step One
Begin by taking the sliced pickling cucumbers and the sliced onions. Place them in a large bowl and mix in the 1/4 cup of salt. Next, proceed to pour chilled water over the mixture until it’s covered completely. Let this mixture stand for about 2-3 hours.
Step Two
After the 2-3 hours have passed, drain the cucumber and onion mixture and rinse it well to remove excess salt.
Step Three
Meanwhile, take a large saucepan and combine 2 cups of sugar, 2 cups of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of celery seed and 1 tablespoon of mustard seed. Stir these ingredients on medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step Four
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the drained cucumber and onion mixture to the saucepan. Also add 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper. Stir all the ingredients well and bring to a boil.
Step Five
Reduce the heat immediately once the mixture starts boiling and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Do not overcook as the cucumbers should retain some crunchiness.
Step Six
After the mixture has simmered, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Once cool, transfer it into clean, sterilized jars and seal tightly.
Step Seven
Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least a week before using, as this will allow the spices to fully infuse the cucumbers. The pickle is ready when the cucumbers have turned a deep, translucent green. Remember, the longer they are stored, the more flavorful they will become.
