Classic Canadian Mustard Pickles Recipe

Name: Classic Canadian Mustard Pickles Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1485 min
Yield: 32 cups
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 cups cauliflower (cut into small florets); 4 cups cucumbers (sliced); 2 cups onions (chopped); 2 cups white vinegar; 1 1/2 cups white sugar; 1/2 cup dry mustard; 1 tbsp turmeric; 1 tbsp celery seed; 1 tbsp salt

1485 min 32 cups Medium

All Recipes

Savour the tangy taste of homemade mustard pickles, a traditional Canadian favourite.

Prep

30 min

Cook

15 min

Total

1485 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Mustard pickles are a staple in many Canadian households, providing a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavour that complements a variety of dishes. This recipe captures the essence of traditional mustard pickles, with a balance of mustard and turmeric for that classic yellow hue. Our version sticks closely to the classic recipe that's been passed down through generations, ensuring you'll enjoy the authentic taste. Whether you're a pickle aficionado or a newcomer, this recipe will guide you to pickle perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the vegetables

Wash and cut the cauliflower into small florets. Slice the cucumbers and chop the onions.

Pro tip: Use fresh vegetables for the best texture.

Create the brine

In a large pot, combine white vinegar, white sugar, dry mustard, turmeric, celery seed, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent the mustard from clumping.

Cook the vegetables

Add the vegetables to the boiling brine. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Pro tip: Do not overcook; the vegetables should maintain some crunch.

Sterilize jars

While the vegetables cook, sterilize mason jars by boiling them in water for at least 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure jars are completely submerged in water.

Fill the jars

Carefully pack the hot vegetables into the sterilized jars, then fill with brine, leaving 1 cm (1/2 inch) headspace.

Pro tip: Use a funnel to prevent spillage.

Seal and process

Wipe the rims of the jars and seal with lids. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure jars are covered by at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, firm vegetables for the best crunch.
Adjust the mustard to your taste preference.
Ensure jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are mustard pickles?

Mustard pickles are a type of preserved vegetable dish flavoured with mustard, vinegar, sugar, and spices, popular in Canadian cuisine.

How long do mustard pickles last?

Unopened, they can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within a month.

Can I adjust the mustard flavour?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of dry mustard to suit your taste preference.

Are mustard pickles spicy?

They have a mild spiciness from the mustard and turmeric, balanced by sugar.

What can I serve mustard pickles with?

They pair well with sandwiches, cold cuts, and charcuterie boards.

Serving Suggestions

Mustard pickles are perfect alongside sandwiches, cold cuts, or as part of a charcuterie board. The tangy flavour pairs well with rich meats and cheeses. If you're planning to make these in advance, store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within a month for the best flavour.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

See the whole store

Baking · Loaf Pans

P&P CHEF Loaf Pan, 9 x 5 Inch Stainless Steel Bread Pan, (Silver, 2Pcs)

$22.49

BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · BBQ Pizza Stones

ROCKSHEAT 10.25" x 0.47" Small Size Round Pizza Stone, Cordierite Pizza Stone for Oven Grill BBQ, Food Grade Baking Stone for Pizza and Bread, Outdoor Pizza Accessories for Grilling

$25.99

Pit Boss Grills

Pulled Pork Rub

$4.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.