Sweet Horseradish Pickles Recipe
To make sweet horseradish pickles, gather 2 pounds of pickling cucumbers, 16 ounces of vinegar, 32 ounces of water, 3/4 cup honey, and 1/2 cup fresh horseradish. Start by boiling the vinegar, water, honey, and pickling salt to create the brine. Pack sliced cucumbers in sterilized jars, add horseradish, garlic, and spices, then pour in the brine. Seal the jars and refrigerate or can them. For the best flavor, let them rest for at least 2 days. Discover more tips for perfecting your pickling!
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
If you’re looking for a unique addition to your meals, you’ll love sweet horseradish pickles. They combine sweetness with the heat of horseradish, providing a distinctive taste experience. You can easily customize them to match your spice level preferences, making them perfect for snacks or as a condiment.
These pickles come with health benefits too. They’re high in antioxidants, which can reduce cell damage. Plus, they may aid digestion thanks to probiotics and help curb sugar spikes. Additionally, the horseradish strength can vary based on freshness and type used, allowing for a unique flavor profile in each batch.
With only 28 calories per serving, they fit well into a low-calorie diet. Their high water content helps you feel fuller for longer.
Recipe
Sweet horseradish pickles are a delightful and tangy addition to your culinary repertoire. This recipe combines the crispness of pickling cucumbers with the unique flavor of horseradish, resulting in a sweet and spicy pickle that can elevate sandwiches, cheese platters, or simply serve as a snack on their own. The balance of vinegar, sugar, and fresh horseradish provides a distinct taste that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
Preparing these pickles is straightforward, making it a perfect project for both novice and seasoned cooks. With just a few key ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a batch of sweet horseradish pickles that will impress your family and friends.
Whether you choose to refrigerate them for a quick turnaround or can them for long-term storage, these pickles will add a burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pickling cucumbers (or small Kerby pickles)
- 16 ounces white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 32 ounces water
- 1 1⁄2 tablespoons pickling spice
- 1 tablespoon pickling salt
- 3⁄4 cup honey (or sugar)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh horseradish (or prepared horseradish)
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
- Additional spices (mustard seed, turmeric) as desired
Cooking Instructions
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Begin by preparing the brine. In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, honey (or sugar), and pickling salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
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Once boiling, remove from heat and allow the brine to cool slightly.
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While the brine is cooling, wash and slice the cucumbers into your desired shape (spears, slices, or leave them whole if using small Kerby pickles). Pack the cucumbers tightly into sterilized mason jars.
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Add the freshly chopped horseradish, garlic, and any additional spices to the jars with the cucumbers. Pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they’re completely submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar.
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Seal the jars tightly with lids. If you’re planning to store them for a longer period, consider processing them in a water bath canner for about 10 minutes. Otherwise, simply refrigerate the jars.
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Allow the pickles to sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 days before consuming. This resting period allows the flavors to meld. Shake the jars gently every day to help distribute the brine.
Extra Tips
To achieve the best flavor and texture, always use fresh ingredients, and be mindful of the strength of the horseradish you choose. You can adjust the amount of horseradish to suit your desired level of spiciness.
For a unique twist, experiment with different types of vinegar or add your favorite pickling spices. Remember to store the pickles in a tightly sealed jar to maintain their freshness for several weeks. Enjoy your homemade sweet horseradish pickles!
Final Thoughts
When considering making sweet horseradish pickles, it’s important to remember a few key points that can enhance your experience.
First, the unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors makes these pickles versatile for snacking or pairing with sandwiches. You can customize your recipe by adjusting the horseradish intensity and experimenting with different vinegars or spices like garlic.
Using fresh cucumbers can yield a different texture compared to processed ones. For longer preservation, consider proper canning techniques or refrigeration. Additionally, remember that these pickles are made with gluten-free ingredients, which can be a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Keep in mind that homemade pickles typically have a shorter shelf life than store-bought ones.
Finally, don’t hesitate to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Horseradish Instead of Sweet Horseradish?
Yes, you can use regular horseradish instead of sweet horseradish. Just remember, it’ll be spicier and sharper. You might want to add some sugar or honey to balance the flavor if you prefer sweetness.
How Long Do Sweet Horseradish Pickles Last in the Fridge?
Once opened, sweet horseradish pickles usually last up to two weeks in the fridge. If you store them properly, they might stay fresh for several weeks, so keep an eye on their condition regularly.
Are There Any Substitutions for the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with maple syrup or honey, using less due to their sweetness. Alternatively, consider lacto-fermentation, which relies on natural sugars, or use sugar substitutes like Splenda, keeping flavor in mind.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
Did you know that 3.1% of the world’s population identifies as vegan? You can absolutely make this recipe vegan-friendly by substituting honey with maple syrup and ensuring all ingredients are free from animal products.
What Dishes Pair Well With Sweet Horseradish Pickles?
You can pair sweet horseradish pickles with sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs for a spicy kick. They also complement grilled meats and can enhance salads, dips, or even baked potatoes for added flavor and crunch.
