Pickles Key Terms

Learn the language of the pickled cucumber

Based off the Middle English "pekille," pickles in the Western culture are a simple pickled cucumber. Connoisseurs enjoy pickles as a healthy snack, a refreshing condiment or a delicious side dish. When the cucumber is placed in a vinegar solution, the entire vegetable changes texture and flavor. From tiny gherkins to larger, regular cucumbers, pickles come in various sizes and shapes. Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to become a picker of the best pickles for your palate.

 

Sweet

These type of pickles are packed in a mixture of sugar, vinegar and spices. Bread and butter, sweet gherkins and candied pickles are some popular types of sweet pickles.
Try: Pickle Packers International has a glossary where you can learn more about the popular types of sweet pickles.

Kosher

In simple pickling terms, a Kosher pickle is one that has garlic added to its brine. This type of dill pickle is usually served in a spear-like shape alongside a sandwich and has a more robust flavor than a regular dill pickle.
Try: Read more about the Kosher pickle and its terminology at the NY Food Museum.

Bread and butter

A type of sweet pickle, the bread and butter is a sweet, thinly-sliced type of pickle. It is pickled in a jar with chopped green or red onions, and when served, has a tangy taste. The pickles are also cut into either waffle shapes or chunks and are best on hamburgers, sandwiches or potato salad.
Try: Pickle Secrets has more information about bread and butter pickles.

Dill

Dill is the most common type of cucumber pickle served in the United States. The distinctive flavor was originally created with the use of dill weed, but today herb oil or dill oil is added to the cucumber during the pickling process. The longer the pickles ferment, the darker dill pickles they become.
Try: Look to Oregon State University and its definition of dill pickles.

Brine

The brine is the pickling liquid used to ferment the cucumber. Originally manufacturers used salt water to make pickles, but then vinegar was added to the mix. Depending upon the type of pickles made, seasonings and spices are added to change the flavorings. Once the pickles have been made, the leftover brine can be used for marinades, in salads or to pickle other vegetables such as peppers or green beans.
Try: Check Yooper Food to learn more about pickle brine.

Relish

This condiment is made from finely cut or chopped pickles served in a variety of flavors. Some popular flavors are sweet pickle, corn, hamburger, India and piccalilli. All these types of relish can be served on hot dogs, hamburgers, deviled eggs or sandwiches.
Try: Read all about relish at the food magazine, The Nibble.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---