Bulgarian cucumber recipe

Bulgarian Cucumbers – A Delicacy at Home

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 500 ml

Bulgarian cucumbers, known for their crunchiness and unique flavor, represent a classic pickling recipe that combines tradition with fresh tastes. This simple, preservative-free recipe is perfect for adding a splash of flavor to your dishes, whether you enjoy them as a side or use them in a salad. Moreover, the pickling process offers an excellent opportunity to preserve fresh cucumbers for longer periods. Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh cucumbers (preferably small and firm)
- 1 liter water
- 5 tablespoons vinegar (preferably 9%)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt (for pickling)
- 10 mustard seeds
- 10 peppercorns
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh dill
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 1 carrot (sliced or round)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (optional, halved)
- Horseradish (optional, for added flavor)

Types of cucumbers:
Choosing the right cucumbers is crucial for the success of the recipe. Opt for small cucumbers with thin skin that have a high water content. They will pickle evenly and have a crunchy texture. Ensure they are fresh and blemish-free for a delicious result.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. It is recommended to soak them in cold water for 1-2 hours to hydrate and make them crunchier.

2. Preparing the jars: Wash the jars and lids with warm water and detergent. Rinse well and let them dry. This step is essential to prevent bacterial growth during the pickling process.

3. Assembling the ingredients: In each jar, add a teaspoon of coarse salt, a teaspoon of sugar, 5 tablespoons of vinegar, 10 mustard seeds, and 10 peppercorns. Then add the onion and carrot slices, garlic cloves, dill and thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.

4. Adding the cucumbers: Carefully place the cucumbers in the jars, pressing gently to fit them well. Make sure the jars are filled adequately to avoid any air pockets.

5. Filling with water: Fill the jars with water, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. This will allow for liquid expansion during boiling.

6. Sealing and boiling: Close the jars tightly with the lids and place them in a large pot of water. Cover the jars with a towel or cloth to protect them. Simmer on low heat for about an hour. It’s important to check the water level in the pot and top up if necessary.

7. Cooling: After the boiling time has elapsed, turn off the heat and let the jars cool in the water. Once completely cooled, you can store them in a pantry or refrigerator.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as anise or field dill, for varied flavors.
- If you want a spicy note, add a few slices of chili pepper to each jar.
- Ensure that the jars are well sealed to prevent spoilage of the pickles.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being low in calories. They contribute to hydration, consisting of 95% water. Additionally, pickles can help maintain gut health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables for pickling? Yes, you can experiment with carrots, cauliflower, or peppers, adjusting boiling times and ingredient proportions.
- How long can I keep the pickles? If properly prepared and sealed, pickles can be stored for several months in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions:
Bulgarian cucumbers are delicious alongside meat dishes but can also be a perfect side for sandwiches or salads. Try them with grilled steak or add them to a potato salad for a crunchy contrast.

Now that you’ve walked through the recipe step by step, you’re ready to transform your kitchen into a place full of unique aromas and flavors. Enjoy your meal!