The Viral TikTok Trend That Pair Pickles With An Iconic Soda
Netizens have once again found the latest TikTok trend to quibble about, and this time, it involves one of the oldest sodas in the country being garnished with pickles. The recent scallion latte trend had many up in arms over a questionable addition to a staple morning beverage. Now, it seems their gaze has shifted toward the controversial way some social media users flavor their Dr. Pepper. One example of the current debate has been posted by @ajlittle0902, a TikTok user who ordered a Dr. Pepper with pickles and appeared fond of the pairing. However, the poster's accomplice in the video had a vehemently contrasting reaction.
@ajlittle0902 We don't know about this one y'all 😠#sonic #drpepper #pickles
While the uploader's collaborator may be right when she says, "You can't do everything they tell you to do on TikTok," the comment section had mixed thoughts. Some found the concept offensive, but others insist the combination is delightful, which may be because Dr. Pepper isn't overly sweet or citrusy, making it stand out from other sodas. The saltiness and vinegar from the pickle brine would likely complement the various flavors lingering within Dr. Pepper, making for a pleasant experience. Social media commenters who approved of the pairing rejoiced in seeing the uploader admiring something as wacky as they do, with one TikTokker claiming, "It's my new favorite drink." Others, however, suggested alternatives that would raise the appeal of a Dr. Pepper.
Pickles might work, but other additions may be better
Pickles are a remarkably versatile snack, but they are also controversial. Where some folks prefer to keep a jar on hand at all times for intermittent cravings and save the juice for whisky pickle-backs, others turn their noses up at what they consider a salty mockery of a refreshing cucumber.Â
Consisting of a hodgepodge of 23 flavors – including cherry, vanilla, cinnamon, and caramel — Dr. Pepper is ripe with pairing possibilities. In the comment section of the Dr. Pepper and pickle TikTok video, some individuals suggested adding strawberries to the drink was the ultimate way to enhance it. This flavor calculation adds up, as strawberries' sweet profile would likely complement Dr. Pepper's subtle vanilla and caramel undertones.
Another commenter proposed introducing jalapeños to the mix. Given the sweet and tangy profile of jalapeños, they would likely add depth of flavor to the drink, similar to the pickles but with a whisper of heat. But, it wouldn't be the first time people combined Dr. Pepper and the mildly spicy veg.
Instead of upscaling Dr. Pepper, use it as seasoning
Pitmasters across the U.S. are well-known for putting unique spins on rubs and marinades to make mouthwatering barbecued fare, and Dr. Pepper has long been utilized to this end. It's common to see Dr. Pepper and jalapeños married in a flavorful BBQ sauce that gets slathered on ribs, burgers, and any other savory treat within reach at a cookout. Marinating pulled pork with the flavorsome soda adds a sweet and savory element to the protein as the carbonation works to tenderize it by breaking down the tough meat fibers.
Though great for upscaling proteins, the Mr. Pibb doppelganger isn't a one-trick pony. You can enhance the flavor of baked beans with Dr. Pepper or add it to chili to give the dish more personality. Dessert enthusiasts have created recipes for cupcakes, brownies, and pound cakes that all take advantage of the soda's complex flavor. Even if the trend seems frivolous, consider using TikTok's latest pickle controversy as an inspiration to test Dr. Pepper's versatility the next time you're hunting for a new and creative way to flavor your cuisine.