Best Ever Pickles (VRP 001)

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Pickles are a beloved treat for many, with their tangy, salty, and sometimes sweet flavor. However, for those who aren’t big fans of pickles, it might be hard to imagine how one pickle recipe could stand out as the “Best Ever.” But when you take a closer look at this particular recipe—passed down through generations and clipped from an old newspaper—you might find that there’s more to these pickles than meets the eye.

Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or a curious cook, this recipe has a rich history and a time-tested method that may surprise you. So how does it compare to your favorite pickle recipe? Let’s dive into the details and see if this vintage gem deserves its title as the “Best Ever Pickles.”

Explore more recipes and dive into the world of vintage pickling by checking out our other Pickle Recipes and Condiment Recipes. Happy canning!

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Did you know that November 14th is National Pickle Day?
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Best Ever Pickles

The Recipe’s Legacy: Fanny Summers and Her Pickles

This particular pickle recipe comes from Fanny Cecilia Brown Summers, a woman born on September 1st, 1889, in Amherst, Lorain County, Ohio. Fanny moved to Washington State, where she married Edward Summers on July 9, 1906, in Skagit, Washington. It’s believed that Fanny may have shared her beloved pickle recipe with a local Ohio newspaper, possibly as a nod to her roots, before settling in Mount Vernon, Washington.

The recipe, which has been preserved through a newspaper clipping, showcases Fanny’s culinary skills and her knack for creating flavors that stand the test of time. Fanny passed away in September 1972 in Mount Vernon, Washington, at the age of 83, but her legacy lives on through this delicious pickle recipe.

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Best Ever Pickles Recipe Card Details

The original recipe for Best Ever Pickles is preserved as a newspaper clipping, likely from a small-town publication. This recipe is credited to Fanny Summers, whose connection to both Ohio and Washington is evident in the brief notes attached to the clipping. While the exact publication date is unknown, we know it had to be after 1906, when Fanny married Edward Summers.

The recipe is simple, reflecting the no-nonsense cooking style of the early 20th century. It calls for basic ingredients that were likely staples in most households then, making it accessible and easy to prepare for anyone with a garden full of cucumbers.

Timeline of Fanny Summers and the Best Ever Pickles Recipe

• September 1, 1889: Fanny Cecilia Brown is born in Amherst, Lorain County, Ohio.
• July 9, 1906: Fanny marries Edward Summers in Skagit, Washington.
• Post-1906: The recipe is likely published in an Ohio newspaper after Fanny has moved to Washington.
• September 1972: Fanny Summers passes away in Mount Vernon, Washington, at the age of 83.

How Do These Pickles Stack Up?

The recipe’s title, “Best Ever Pickles,” sets a high bar, but there’s something timeless about the combination of vinegar, sugar, and spices that makes a good pickle recipe stand out. These pickles likely have a classic, balanced flavor that is neither too sweet nor too sour, perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a condiment.

What makes these pickles potentially the “best ever” is their simplicity and versatility. The recipe’s lack of complexity allows the natural flavor of the cucumbers to shine, enhanced by just the right amount of seasoning. For pickle lovers, this might just be the perfect recipe to add to their collection.

July is National Pickle Month, and November 14th is National Pickle Day. This day celebrates the crunchy, tangy, and occasionally fiery pickle.

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Tips for Preparing the Best Ever Pickles

If you’re ready to try Fanny Summers’ famous pickle recipe, here are some tips to help you get the best results:

1. Use Fresh Cucumbers: For the best flavor and crunch, use fresh, firm cucumbers. Pickling cucumbers are ideal, but any variety will work.
2. Sterilize Your Jars: Ensure your jars are sterilized before use to prevent any unwanted bacteria from spoiling your pickles.
3. Balance the Sweetness and Tang: If you prefer your pickles sweeter or tangier, adjust the sugar and vinegar ratio to suit your taste.
4. Let Them Sit: After canning, let your pickles sit for at least a week before eating. This allows the flavors to develop fully.
5. Experiment with Spices: While the recipe is likely straightforward, experiment with additional spices like dill, garlic, or mustard seeds to make it your own.

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Best Ever Pickles Recipe