Bread And Butter Pickle Recipe With Spicy Gochujang Glaze

I’ve always found that a simple crunch can transform an ordinary meal into something special. This easy homemade bread and butter pickle recipe brings a delightful sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy crunch that’s utterly addictive. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving vibrant flavors, our quick pickles are a delicious way to elevate everyday cooking. You’ll love how these pickles brighten up sandwiches or serve as a tasty side for any family dinner.

Ingredient Spotlight and Why They Matter

Pickling Cucumbers (1 kg / 2.2 lb): The star for that signature crisp texture. Look for Kirby or Persian varieties for optimal crunch.
Yellow Onions (2 medium): Adds a mild, savory depth to the pickles.
Fine Sea Salt (30 g / 2 tbsp): Crucial for drawing out excess moisture and enhancing flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar (475 ml / 2 cups): The tangy base for our brine. (For a sharper tang, use white vinegar, or a mix.)
Granulated Sugar (240 g / 1 cup): Essential for the ‘sweet’ in our bread and butter pickle recipe. (To make low-sugar bread and butter pickles, swap with erythritol or stevia.)
Filtered Water (120 ml / ½ cup): Helps dilute and balance the brine.
Yellow Mustard Seeds (15 g / 1 tbsp): A classic spice that provides a warm, pungent flavor.
Celery Seeds (5 g / 1 tsp): Contributes a subtle, earthy celery note.
Turmeric Powder (2.5 g / ½ tsp): Gives these pickles their characteristic golden hue and mild flavor.
Whole Black Peppercorns (2.5 g / ½ tsp): Adds a gentle, peppery aroma.
Red Pepper Flakes (5 g / 1 tsp, optional): For those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.
Gochujang (60 g / ¼ cup): This Korean chili paste creates a unique, spicy Gochujang glaze and rich umami depth. (Always ensure you’re using an alcohol-free formulation.)
Toasted Sesame Seeds (15 g / 1 tbsp, for garnish): Adds a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Scallions (2, green parts only, for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish.

Choosing organic ingredients when possible ensures a cleaner, pesticide-free pickle, contributing to a healthy lifestyle. Most of the spices and vinegars are likely already in your pantry, making this a convenient recipe for quick meals.

Easy Cooking Instructions for Your Bread and Butter Pickles

Prep Your Veggies: In a large, non-reactive bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and onions with the fine sea salt. Toss gently to coat, ensuring every piece glistens with salt. Let them stand at room temperature for 2-3 hours to draw out excess moisture, watching as the vegetables ‘sweat’ out liquid.
Drain and Rinse: After salting, drain the accumulated liquid. Then, rinse the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water, feeling them become less salty. Drain again very well, pressing lightly to remove as much water as possible without crushing them; I sometimes even use a clean kitchen towel to gently press out extra water, ensuring maximum crispness. Set aside.
Make the Brine: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (like my trusty 5-quart Dutch oven), combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, filtered water, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear.
Add Gochujang: Reduce the heat to low. Add the Gochujang to the simmering brine. Whisk continuously until the Gochujang is completely dissolved and the brine is smooth and evenly colored, taking on a glossy, reddish-orange hue.
Combine and Cook: Add the drained cucumber and onion slices to the Gochujang brine. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, stirring gently. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still retain a slight bite. Don’t overcook the vegetables in the brine, as they’ll lose their pleasant tender-crisp texture. For a tangier bread and butter pickle, you can reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
Jar and Seal: Carefully transfer the hot pickles and brine into clean, sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1.5 cm (½ inch) headspace. Ensure the vegetables are fully submerged in the brine. Seal the jars tightly with lids while still hot to create a good seal.
Cool and Chill: Allow the sealed jars to cool completely at room temperature, which helps the flavors settle. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the delicious flavors to meld and deepen. Your homemade bread and butter pickle recipe will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Everyday Uses and Make-Ahead Convenience

Our homemade bread and butter pickles, made from this easy recipe, aren’t just for sandwiches; they’re a versatile staple for any family meal. I often find my kids sneaking a few straight from the jar while I’m prepping dinner – they love the sweet crunch!

Classic sandwich topper: Great on burgers, hot dogs, and deli sandwiches for an elevated taste.
Snack time hero: Enjoy them straight from the jar for a satisfying, low-calorie crunch.
BBQ and potluck favorite: A delicious side for grilled meats, potato salad, and summer salads.
Kids’ lunch boxes: Add a fun, tangy twist that’s healthier than chips.

Creative Serving Ideas

Pair with: BBQ pulled chicken, grilled cheese, crispy fried fish.
Chop into: Homemade tartar sauce, tuna salad, deviled eggs.
Serve alongside: Creamy potato salad, fresh coleslaw, sweet corn on the cob.

Make-Ahead Tips

Batch cooking: Double or triple this bread and butter pickle recipe for a steady supply of flavorful pickles.
Storage: Store in airtight glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. If properly canned, they can last even longer.
Freezing: Not recommended; pickles will unfortunately lose their essential crisp texture.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Advantages of Homemade Bread and Butter Pickles

Making your own bread and butter pickles offers clear advantages for a healthy lifestyle. You control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome addition to your quick dinner ideas or meal prep recipes.

Hydrating and low-calorie: A guilt-free and refreshing snack option.
Digestive support: The vinegar base can aid in digestion.
Customizable for health goals: Easily adjust sugar and sodium levels to fit your personal needs.

Dietary Patterns

Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for many dietary preferences as is.
Easily made keto-friendly or diabetic-friendly: Substitute granulated sugar with a suitable alternative sweetener.

High-Value Phrases for Healthy Living

Ideal for healthy meal prep: Add flavor without excess calories to any dish.
A quick addition to dinner ideas: Enhances balanced plates effortlessly.
A flavorful side for gluten-free recipes: Provides a zesty, crunchy element that complements many meals.

Why This Recipe Helps You Save Time and Money

This homemade bread and butter pickle recipe simplifies cooking routines, offering a superior product faster than most store-bought options. You don’t need any special equipment beyond basic kitchen tools like a pot or a 10-inch skillet for the brine.

Economical: Significantly cheaper than buying specialty pickles, especially with seasonal cucumbers.
Simple ingredients: Uses readily available and affordable produce and pantry staples.
Kid-approved: The appealing sweet and tangy flavor usually wins over even picky eaters, making it a family-friendly favorite.

Simplify your grocery shopping by ordering pickling cucumbers and other ingredients online for convenient home delivery.

Smart Tips, Adjustments, and Special Notes

Upgrades for Flavor and Presentation

Fresh dill: Add a small sprig to each jar for an elevated aroma and flavor profile.
Decorative jars: Pack into attractive jars for thoughtful homemade gifts or appealing display in your pantry.

Adjustments for Spiciness, Sweetness, or Texture

Extra crunch: Include a small grape leaf or a pinch of pickle crisp to each jar before sealing.
More garlic: Slice in a clove or two per jar for a delightful garlicky kick.

Safety and Allergy-Friendly Tweaks for Families

Allergy notes: Always check spice blend labels for any hidden allergens if cooking for families with sensitivities.
Proper canning (if desired): For shelf-stable bread and butter pickles, carefully follow safe water bath canning procedures to ensure longevity.

Common Questions About Bread and Butter Pickles

Q: What are the best cucumbers for a bread and butter pickle recipe?

A: Use crisp, firm pickling cucumbers like Kirby or Persian varieties for optimal crunch. I often grab Kirby cucumbers because their uniform size makes for neat, appealing slices in my jars.

Q: Can I make low-sugar bread and butter pickles?

A: Yes! Simply substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia, following package directions for equivalent sweetness, to make them diabetic-friendly.

Q: How long do homemade bread and butter pickles last in the fridge?

A: Stored properly in sealed jars, your homemade bread and butter pickles will last 3-4 weeks (or even longer) in the refrigerator. I always make a big batch for easy healthy meal prep throughout the month.

Q: What are the best healthy sides to serve with bread and butter pickles?

A: They’re great with grilled chicken, turkey burgers, or even a fresh garden salad for a healthy meal. Their tangy sweetness complements a variety of lean proteins and vegetables.

Q: Is this a good recipe for beginners?

A: Absolutely! This is a fantastic easy pickle recipe for anyone new to making homemade pickles. The steps are straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious.

Q: Can I freeze bread and butter pickles for meal prep?

A: Freezing is not recommended as it will cause the pickles to lose their crisp texture. It’s best to store them in the refrigerator to maintain their delightful crunch.

Q: Do I need special equipment for this bread and butter pickle recipe?

A: No, you only need basic kitchen tools like a pot, cutting board, sharp knife, and glass jars. No fancy canning equipment is required for refrigerated pickles.

This bread and butter pickle recipe delivers incredible flavor and crunch to your family meals without the fuss, making healthy eating simple and satisfying. I hope you enjoy these as much as my family does; they truly elevate weeknight dinners. Don’t wait! Add cucumbers to your next grocery list and make these irresistible pickles this week. Save this recipe on Pinterest for later!