Homemade pickled cucumbers recipe

Pickled Cucumbers Recipe - The Taste of Childhood in a Jar

Pickled cucumbers are a delicacy that reminds us of childhood, of winters spent with loved ones. This recipe, inherited from my mother, combines tradition with a special technique that gives them a unique taste. Get ready to discover how you can create these delicious pickles at home, turning every meal into a celebration of flavor!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-5 jars of 400 ml

Necessary Ingredients

- Cucumbers: 1 kg (it is ideal to use gherkins, but you can also opt for other varieties)
- Water: 1 liter (for the first stage of blanching)
- Salt: 1 tablespoon (for blanching) + 1/2 tablespoon (for brine)
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (for brine)
- Pickling spice mix: 2 tablespoons (from Galeo, containing: black pepper, mustard seeds, coriander, allspice, bay leaves, chili, juniper, cloves)
- Dried dill: 2-3 tablespoons
- Dried thyme: 2-3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves
- Bay leaves: 2-3
- Horseradish: a few slices (optional)
- Celery: 1 stalk (optional)
- Hot pepper: 1 (optional, for a spicy touch)

Useful for Preparation

- A yena dish or a container that withstands high temperatures (for blanching)
- Jars with lids (ideally sterilized)
- Thick towel (to cover the jars after filling)

Step by Step

Step 1: Blanching the Cucumbers
Start by washing the cucumbers well, removing any impurities. In a container, add 1 liter of water and 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, pour it over the cucumbers, which have been placed in a yena dish. Cover the dish with a lid and let it rest for 24 hours. This step is essential as blanching helps maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers and gives them an intense flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the Brine
After 24 hours, remove the cucumbers from the water and let them dry on a clean towel. In another pot, add 1 liter of water, 1/2 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, a sprig of thyme, and 2-3 tablespoons of the pickling spice mix. Put the pot on the heat and let it boil for a few minutes.

Step 3: Assembling the Jars
In each jar, place a layer of dried dill and dried thyme. Interleave a bay leaf, a few slices of horseradish, and garlic cloves. Arrange the cucumbers gently to avoid crushing them. Finally, add another thin layer of dried dill and thyme. If you want a spicy note, you can add chopped hot pepper now.

Step 4: Pouring the Brine
After the brine has boiled, let it cool slightly, then pour it over the cucumbers, ensuring they are completely covered. If you don't have a cool place to store the jars, add a few pickle preservative granules or aspirin on top. Cover the jars with their lids and wrap them in a thick towel to cool gradually.

Step 5: Fermentation
Leave the jars in a warm place for 2-3 days, then move them to the fridge or a cool place to store.

Practical Tips

1. Choosing Cucumbers: Choose fresh cucumbers, free of spots or defects. Gherkins are ideal due to their small size and crunchiness.

2. Sterilizing Jars: It is essential to sterilize the jars beforehand to prevent bacterial growth. You can boil them in water or put them in the oven.

3. Spicy Variant: If you like spicy pickles, add more hot pepper or use a spicy spice mix.

Nutritional Information

Pickled cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K, contributing to bone health. They are also low in calories, with about 15 calories per 100 g, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of vinegar is best for pickling?
The most common is white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but you can experiment with various types for a different taste.

Can I use already pickled cucumbers?
It is not recommended, as the blanching process is essential for texture and flavor.

How long do pickled cucumbers last?
Under optimal conditions, pickled cucumbers can last up to a year, but it is best to consume them within 6 months to enjoy their fresh taste.

Serving Recommendations

Pickled cucumbers are perfect to be served alongside grilled meats, in sandwiches, or as a side dish to salads. You can pair them with a cold beer or a dry white wine to enhance their flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to try this pickled cucumber recipe and enjoy the taste of childhood. Each jar will bring a touch of memories and joy to your winter days!