Chronicles of a Frugal Gardener

These are a favorite appetizer around my parts...although they are called something a little less politically correct.  Regardless, they are delicious and never last. 

There are about a gazillion ways to make this.  Some suggest you use your favorite lunch meat, I will be using beef. (Original recipe calls for a jar of corned beef but I use Carl Buddings sliced beef as it is less expensive.) 

Recipe 1

Things you will need

1 package of sliced beef or a jar of corned beef
1 package cream cheese, softened
Dill Pickles, sliced or whole

(I used homemade sliced pickles for this recipe.  The most outstanding recipe can be found at Gardening in the Boroughs of NYC)

Remove the slices of beef and separate them.  Pat them dry.  Spread a layer of cream cheese on a slice of beef.  If you are using a whole pickle, simply roll the slice of beef around the pickle and secure with a tooth pick.  Using pickle slices, line them along to cover about 3/4 of the slice of beef.  Starting at the pickle side, start rolling and secure with a tooth pick.  Arrange on a plate and stick in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This will help cut the rolls into bite size pieces.

Recipe 2

Follow recipe 1 but add 2 Tablespoons sour cream to the cream cheese and mix well.



Recipe 3

Pickle Wrap Dip

The most time friendly out of the bunch.
Things you will need


1 package of sliced beef or a jar of corned beef, diced
1 package cream cheese, softened
2 T. sour cream or enough to make the cream cheese creamy.
Dill Pickles, finely chopped

Mix all of the ingredients together and eat with crackers.


Feel free to experiment.  You can add hot pickles, extra dill, or even try ham or turkey.  The possibilities are endless but I promise they will be a hit.