Often overlooked, pickle juice contains an astounding amount of flavor. Whether in the kitchen, the bar or even as a little everyday helper – the briny liquid is far more useful than you'd think.
While pickles are an ever-popular salty treat, the briny pickle juice found in each jar is often carelessly poured down the sink. But there is much more to pickle juice than meets the eye – when used correctly, it has myriad uses in the kitchen and in everyday life.
The mixture of vinegar, salt and herbs is bursting with arome and can be used in a variety of ways. In the kitchen, a dash of pickle juice adds a subtle acidity to soups or stews, gives potato dishes a fresh flavor, and sauces and dips such as remoulade or mayonnaise appear lighter and more exciting. Pickle juice is also useful as a marinade for meat or fish: it makes meat more tender and adds flavor without masking the original taste.
Some bartenders have long sworn by it: Pickle juice gives drinks a distinctive flavor. Whether in a classic Bloody Mary or as a refreshing twist in a gin and tonic – the salty-sour flavor profile adds contrast to sweet drinks. The more daring even use it as an alternative to bitters and essences.
And even away from the kitchen and bar, pickle juice has its uses. Due to its salt and mineral content, it is considered a household remedy that can help replenish electrolytes after sports or even a night of partying, relieving muscle cramps and heartburn as well as alleviating hangovers. Whether it works for everyone remains to be seen – but it's definitely worth a try.
