Most of us seem to have a love-hate relationship with pickles. Some people are a big fan and they tend to eat them on almost anything they possibly can, including on the side of most dishes. Others, however, have never quite acquired the taste. If you happen to be somebody who loves pickles, you are likely keen to tell others about it.
Many of us look at pickles because of the taste that they provide. They are great on a hamburger, perfect for a bloddy Mary and we can even fry them as a snack. What you may not know, however, is that there is a secret hiding in the pickle jar that can benefit you in numerous ways.
I’m talking about pickle juice, and you should never throw it away. It doesn’t matter if you love the taste or not, pickle juice has hidden benefits that you need to know about. Here are some of them
1. Flavor Enhancer:
Pickle juice isn’t just a one-hit wonder in the world of flavor; it’s a culinary alchemist that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary creations. The mix of vinegar, spices, and brine in pickle juice lends a complex tanginess that can be harnessed in various ways. Use it as a marinade for meats, allowing its acidity to tenderize and infuse flavors deep within the protein. When grilling or roasting, brush pickle juice onto your meats to form a mouthwatering caramelized crust. It’s also an ingenious addition to dressings, sauces, and even soups, adding a distinctive depth that can awaken taste buds in unexpected ways.
2. Picklebacks:
The world of mixology has welcomed the intriguing and flavorful phenomenon known as the “pickleback.” This unique shot involves chasing a sip of whiskey with a gulp of pickle juice. The briny kick of the juice acts as an instant palate cleanser, neutralizing the burn of the whiskey and leaving a delightful contrast that’s both refreshing and invigorating.
3. Muscle relaxer
If you work out or if you tend to get muscle cramps, you have likely heard the term electrolytes. Those are micronutrients that help to keep muscle cramps from happening, and pickle juice is packed with them!
Some of the electrolytes included in pickle juice are potassium and sodium. Dilute a few spoonfuls of pickle juice in some water to recharge your body.
4. Post-Workout Replenishment:
Following an intense workout, your body craves replenishment. Enter pickle juice – a natural source of electrolytes that aids in restoring the balance disrupted by sweat. By providing a quick and efficient way to replenish sodium and potassium levels, pickle juice can assist in rehydrating your body and minimizing the risk of post-exercise cramps.
5. Digestive Aid:
Pickle juice holds an unexpected gift for your gut health. Packed with probiotics – beneficial microorganisms – this elixir can contribute to maintaining a balanced and healthy gut flora. Incorporating a small amount of pickle juice into your meals can aid digestion by promoting the growth of good bacteria, supporting efficient nutrient absorption, and even potentially easing digestive discomfort.
6. Hangover Cure:
In the aftermath of a lively evening, pickle juice can serve as a natural remedy for the notorious hangover. Alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which contribute to hangover symptoms. By supplying your body with the electrolytes it craves, pickle juice can help you bounce back faster and feel more like yourself after a night of revelry.
7. Vinegar Replacement:
Vinegar is a staple in many recipes, lending its acidity and depth of flavor. However, pickle juice can step in as an intriguing and versatile alternative. Whether you’re deglazing a pan, marinating ingredients, or creating a vinaigrette, the unique tang of pickle juice can elevate your dishes to new heights, infusing them with an unparalleled complexity.
8. Pickling Vegetables:
Don’t let pickle juice go to waste – use it to embark on your own pickling adventures. Instead of discarding the brine, introduce sliced vegetables like onions, carrots, or cucumbers to the leftover juice. Allow them to soak and absorb the flavors, transforming into quick pickles that can complement a variety of dishes.
9. Salad Dressing:
Pickle juice possesses the power to turn a mundane salad into a culinary masterpiece. By mixing pickle juice with olive oil, herbs, and spices, you create a zesty and vibrant dressing that can elevate even the simplest of greens. This dressing not only adds flavor but also a touch of excitement to your salads.
10. Cocktail Mixer:
In the realm of mixology, pickle juice takes on a new role – that of a creative and unexpected mixer. Incorporating pickle juice into cocktails like Bloody Marys, martinis, or even margaritas introduces a unique twist that tantalizes the palate and sparks conversation.
11. Cooking Aid:
Hard-boiled eggs can be a challenge to peel, often resulting in frustration and uneven surfaces. The solution? Add a splash of pickle juice to the water before boiling the eggs. The vinegar in the juice can slightly soften the eggshells, making them easier to peel once they’re cooked.
12. Sore Throat Soother:
A sore throat can be a real pain in the neck, but some pickle juice may be all that is necessary to help ease the issue.
Try some warm diluted pickle juice and gargle with it. Continue the process and the balancing effect of the vinegar will help to ease your pain.
