When it comes to pickling, a lot of people especially beginners don’t know that there are various types of pickles that add unique flavour to each vegetable being pickled. Aside from the various types of pickles, the use of pickling jars like clear jars with lids can never be overemphasised as it offers various advantages over coloured jars with lids used for pickles.
In this guide, we will share what you need to know about the 7 seven different types of pickles and also the advantages of using clear glass jars with lids like the popular 500ml jars.
Types of Pickles to Store in Clear Jars with Lids
Glass jars, particularly clear jars with lids are ideal for pickling because of their unique features like non-reactivity, and clear visibility among others. Let’s explore some of the types of pickles you can store in glass jars.
1. Full Sour Pickles
Full sour pickles are made from fermenting cucumbers in a brine solution for some time. It is also referred to as lacto-fermented. This makes it develop a tangy flavour and are considered a classic choice for sour pickle lovers. These pickles are also considered to be full of healthy probiotics.
Storing these pickles in clear glass jars with lids can help maintain their texture while allowing you to monitor their brine level. You can consider using 500ml jars especially when you intend portioning them.
2. Half Sour Pickles
Half sour pickles have a milder tangy flavour compared to full sour pickles. Their milder sour flavour is as a result of the time of their fermentation. They are fermented for half the time of the full fermentation for full sour pickles. This makes it important to use clear glass jars and portion the pickles in medium size jars like 500ml jars to easily monitor the pickling process.
3. Dill Pickles
Dill pickles are often reffered to as the most popular pickles. It is made with vinegar, pickling salt, and dill in its brine, which can be fresh, dried, or in seed form.
You can enjoy it either as a snack (sliced or whole)or in sandwiches, burgers. Storing dill pickles in 500ml glass jars with lids keeps them in good condition and ensures that their flavours stay fresh.
4. Sweet Pickles
Sweet pickles is just another type of pickles that is a little different from other kinds of pickles. Though it is called sweet pickles, it has a less amount of sugatr compared to dill pickles though they go through the same process of preparation. Their flavour makes them suitable to be eaten as snacks, layered on sandwiches, stuffed into olives, or added to hot dogs.
5. Gherkins
Gherkins are pickled cucumbers that are small and crunchy with a savoury or tart taste. They are made with young cucumbers, Kirby cucumbers, or Persian cucumbers and are enjoyed as snacks or garnishes. They are best stored in clear jars with lids, where their beautiful green colour are showcased. The secure lid prevents spoilage, while the 500ml size is just right for personal or commercial use.
6. Bread and Butter Pickles
The bread and butter pickles are often seasoned with mustard seeds, coriander, celery seeds, onions, and green or red peppers. These pickles are a type of sweet pickles usually sliced, making them ideal for storing in 500ml jars. The golden hues and unique spice blend are attractive and appealing especially when store in clear jars, which makes them appealing to customers and home users alike. They can be served in chips form.
7. Cornichons
Cornichons is a type of cucumber pickles that is considered the French cousin of gherkins, which are small pickles with a sharper, tangier flavor. It is often served alongside cheese or charcuterie boards. The cornichons require proper storage to maintain their crispness hence why glass jars are recommended for their storage especially when you are packaging to also enhance their visual appeal.
Why Choose Clear Jars with Lids for Pickles?
- Glass jars are non-reactive hence they ensure that pickles retain their original flavour and feshness.
- Clear jars allows you to easily display the pickles' natural colours, making them more attractive for consumers.
- They come in a variety of sizes including 500ml jars which are ideal for individual or small-batch storage.
- Glass jars are eco-friendly, reusable, and recyclable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size jar is best for pickles?
A 500ml jar is a suitable size for small batches, because it provides ample space for brine and pickles while being perfect size for storage.
Why are glass jars ideal for storing pickles?
Glass jars are non-reactive, which preserve the pickles' flavour and prevent any chemical interaction with the brine. The clear glass jars also allows you to easily monitor the pickles as it ages.
Can I reuse glass jars for pickling?
Yes, glass jars can be reused for pickling, provided they are cleaned and sterilized properly before use.
What types of lids are best for pickle jars?
Airtight lids are the best for pickling jars, such as metal or plastic screw-top lids, are ideal for maintaining the freshness and flavor of pickles.
Are glass jars better than plastic for pickles?
Clear glass jars with lids are better compared to plastic jars for pickles because they are non-toxic, preserve flavours better, and are more visually appealing.