Pickle Brine

Pickle brine is the tangy, salty liquid left over after pickling cucumbers or other vegetables, often used as a flavorful ingredient in its own right. It's typically made from water, vinegar, salt, and spices like dill, garlic, or mustard seeds, originating from traditions of food preservation across Europe and North America.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Pickle brine is very low in calories, carbs, fat, and protein, but it's a significant source of sodium and can provide small amounts of electrolytes like potassium. A typical serving (about 1 cup) contains roughly 10-20 calories, mostly from salt.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	15 kcal
Protein	0.5 g
Carbs	3.5 g
Fat	0 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	1.5 g
Sodium	2300 mg
Sodium	2300 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Calcium	50 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Vitamin C	5 mg
Vitamin K	15 mcg
Magnesium	15 mg
Manganese	0.2 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, pickle brine has been repurposed in various cuisines as a marinade, cocktail ingredient (like in a Pickleback shot), or even a folk remedy for hangovers, highlighting its versatility beyond just preserving food.