Bread and Butter Pickles are a classic American condiment, and this recipe from Lydia Alice Lewis, born in Morrow, Ohio, in 1864, connects us to the culinary traditions of the past. Lydia’s life spanned a significant period in American history, and her recipes offer a glimpse into the food culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the aunt of Goldie Ree Lewis, the matriarch of the eight vintage recipe boxes from Morrow County, Ohio, Lydia’s legacy is preserved through these cherished family recipes.
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Lydia Lewis’s Bread and Butter Pickles
Bread and Butter Pickles History
Bread and Butter Pickles have a storied history in American cuisine, dating back to the early 20th century. The origin of “Bread and Butter Pickles” is somewhat debated, but it is widely believed that they were named during the Great Depression when people often ate these sweet and tangy pickles with bread and butter as a simple meal. The pickles were an economical way to preserve cucumbers, a common garden vegetable, and they quickly became a staple in American households.
Lydia’s recipe reflects the traditional method of making Bread and Butter Pickles, using readily available ingredients and preserving them for use throughout the year. Including a “pinch of alum” is a nod to old-fashioned pickling techniques, where alum was often used to keep pickles crisp.
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Timeline
- Early 20th Century: Bread and Butter Pickles become popular in the U.S., especially during the Great Depression.
- 1864: Lydia Alice Lewis is born in Morrow, Ohio.
- 1954: Lydia Alice Lewis passed away, leaving a legacy of cherished recipes like this one.
Recipe Discussion
This Bread and Butter Pickles recipe is straightforward and traditional, capturing the essence of home canning in Lydia’s time. The recipe calls for pickling cucumbers, which are smaller and firmer than regular cucumbers, making them ideal for pickling. The cucumbers are cut and soaked in salt water, a step that helps draw out moisture and keeps the pickles crisp. The mixture of vinegar, sugar, and mixed spices creates the signature sweet and tangy flavor that Bread and Butter Pickles are known for.
Small onions add an extra layer of flavor, making these pickles perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side dish. The brief boiling time ensures that the cucumbers retain some crunch while absorbing the flavors of the pickling liquid.
Preparation Tips
- Cucumber Selection: For the best results, use fresh, firm pickling cucumbers. Slicing them evenly ensures consistent texture.
- Salt Soak: Don’t skip the salt water soak, as it is crucial for maintaining the crunchiness of the pickles.
- Vinegar Boil: Make sure the vinegar mixture comes to a full boil before adding the cucumbers to ensure proper pickling.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: Serve these pickles alongside sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs for a classic American meal.
- Charcuterie Board: Add them to a charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, and other pickled vegetables for a delightful appetizer.
- Salad Addition: Chop them up and add them to potato salad or coleslaw for a tangy twist.
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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Recommended Products for Making Bread and Butter Pickles
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Pickling Jars: Essential for storing your homemade pickles. Choose jars with tight-fitting lids to ensure a good seal.
- Mandoline Slicer: Perfect for slicing cucumbers evenly and quickly.
- Stainless Steel Pot: Ideal for boiling the vinegar and spices mixture.
Enjoy a Taste of the Past
Making Lydia Lewis’s Bread and Butter Pickles is like taking a step back in time, connecting with the flavors and traditions of the past. These pickles, with their perfect balance of sweetness and tang, are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American recipes. Try them out in your kitchen and discover why they’ve remained a favorite for generations. Whether enjoyed on their own or as an accompaniment to a meal, these pickles are sure to become a staple in your household.
Explore the Rich History of Vintage Recipe Box 001
Vintage Recipe Box 001 is part of a remarkable collection of eight recipe boxes from the estate of Goldie Ree Lewis Sowers (1889-1987). This box, along with the others, was discovered at an estate sale in Shelby, Ohio, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions of Goldie’s life. Born in Morrow County, Ohio, and living a full 98 years, Goldie’s recipes reflect decades of home cooking, with contributions from friends and family. Each recipe card tells a story of the enjoyed meals, from savory main dishes to sweet desserts.
Click here to explore all Vintage Recipe Box 001 recipes and learn more about Goldie’s collection.
Bread and Butter Pickles by Lydia Lewis Recipe
Bread and Butter Pickles by Lydia Lewis (VRP 001)
Ingredients
- 3 quarts pickling cucumbers
- 1 quart vinegar
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 teaspoons mixed spices
- 2 teaspoons salt
- pinch of alum
- small onions
Instructions
- Cut the pickling cucumber without peeling them
- Let stand in medium salt water for 3 hours and drain
- Boil spices and vinegar
- Place the pickling cucumbers in the boiling vinegar and boil for 3 minutes