Versatility of Pickles
November 14, 2024
Did you know today is National Pickle Day? Neither did I.
The origins of National Pickle Day trace back to the early 2000s when the Pickle Packers International, a trade group representing pickle manufacturers, began promoting the holiday to bring awareness to the long history, cultural significance, and surprising versatility of pickles.
However, pickles themselves have been a part of human history for thousands of years, with origins dating back to ancient Mesopotamia around 2400 BC, when cucumbers were first pickled for preservation. Over time, pickling became a widely used method to preserve vegetables and other foods, with each culture putting its own spin on the process.
By the Middle Ages, pickles had made their way to Europe and, later, to America. Sailors, including Christopher Columbus, kept barrels of pickles on their ships to prevent scurvy, and settlers in the New World adopted pickling as a practical way to preserve food for winter months.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Jewish immigrants brought kosher pickles to the United States, sparking the classic New York deli tradition. Today, pickles are enjoyed in a multitude of ways, from dill and sweet to bread-and-butter and even spicy varieties.
So, on November 14, grab a jar of your favorite pickles and join in the celebration of this unique holiday! My Paint & Shine characters are well-versed in the art of pickling to preserve their garden bounty. I’m a big fan of both sweet and dill pickles. Which is your favorite?
While you’re here, check out our November contest, which runs through Nov. 22. Two books are being given away to one winner. More information HERE.
Want more information about our author Cheryl Hollon? Visit her WEBSITE.
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The Paint & Shine Mysteries are set in the Daniel Boone National Forest. My parents were born and raised in the area, and now they rest in peace in the JJ Adams Family Cemetery in Wolfe County, Kentucky. The characters spend considerable time preparing traditional southern meals and creating moonshine cocktails. Please consider buying locally. Independent bookstores need your help. BUY LINK
Posted in Let's Talk, with Cheryl Hollon • Tags: Cheryl Hollon, Let's Talk, National Pickle Day, Pant and Shine Mysteries, Versatility of Pickles | 8 Comments
Hi Cheryl — I like pickles, too. But I’m picky about presentation. For dills, they can never be cut into rounds unless on a sandwich. If I’m eating them as a snack, I have to slice them into very thin spears. Not a huge sweet pickle fan except for relish but I do like gherkins…probably because they are so darn cute. 🙂
Hi Diane — that made me laugh! Gherkins are indeed adorable.
I love dill pickles. Deborah
2 faves:
half-done kosher dill
and bread and butter!
Dill for burgers, sweet for pea salad.
I haven’t met a pickle I don’t like. 🙂
Dill all the way! 😁
I prefer dill pickles, although I tend to avoid pickles in general due to the salt content. I’m much more of an olive fan.