Cucumbers a la Nico

Nico's Pickles - Delicious Pickles for Any Meal

When it comes to pickles, cucumbers are undoubtedly the stars of summer. With a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor, these Nico's cucumbers represent a classic recipe, perfect to enjoy alongside various dishes or as an appetizer. Let's explore this simple yet vibrant recipe together, which will add a touch of freshness to your table.

Preparation: 20 minutes
Boiling: 100 minutes (50 minutes, twice)
Total: 120 minutes
Servings: Approximately 7 jars (4 jars of 750 g, 2 jars of 300 g, and 1 jar of 1 kg)

Recipe History:
Pickling has a long-standing tradition, serving as a method for preserving vegetables to enjoy them year-round. This specific cucumber recipe gained popularity due to its simple and effective combination of ingredients, offering an unmistakable taste. By using just a few basic ingredients, such as vinegar, salt, and sugar, the recipe allows cucumbers to retain their natural aroma, while the infusion of spices adds a touch of refinement.

Ingredients:
- 3 kg fresh cucumbers, thin-skinned
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings
- 1 cup of undiluted 9% vinegar (approximately 100 ml)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1 dried dill flower (for flavor)
- Water (enough to fill the jars)

Practical Tips for Ingredients:
- Choose young cucumbers, with smooth skin and no spots. They will provide the best texture and flavor.
- The onion can be adjusted according to your preferences; a red onion can add a touch of sweetness.
- Quality vinegar is essential. It is recommended to use vinegar from trusted sources, such as that from Topoloveni, for an authentic taste.
- Mustard seeds add a hint of flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a simpler taste.

Preparation Technique:
1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water, removing any impurities. A great choice would be to soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to help them become even crunchier.
2. Prepare the jars: Ensure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or using a sterilization cycle in the oven.
3. In each jar, carefully place 4 rings of onion. This will add a subtle flavor to the cucumbers during the pickling process.
4. Place the cucumbers vertically, tightly, in the jars, ensuring no air remains between them.
5. In a separate container, mix the vinegar, salt, sugar, and mustard. Pour this mixture over the cucumbers, filling the jars almost to the top. Add water to completely cover the cucumbers.
6. Add one dried dill flower to each jar to intensify the flavor.
7. Seal the jars with glass lids or aluminum foil to prevent evaporation.
8. Place the jars in a water bath, over low heat, for about 50 minutes. Ensure the water in the pot covers at least 2/3 of the height of the jars.
9. After the first round of boiling, remove the jars from the water and let them cool. Cover them with a towel to retain heat.
10. The next day, repeat the boiling process for another 50 minutes.
11. After the second round of boiling is complete, allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a dark, cool place.

Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- You can experiment with other spices, such as whole pepper or bay leaves, to add a personal touch to the recipe.
- These cucumbers are wonderful served alongside grilled meat or in sandwiches, but you can also use them in salads for an extra touch of freshness.
- A personal trick is to add a teaspoon of dried chili for a spicy note!

Nutritional Benefits:
Cucumbers are an excellent source of hydration, having a high water content. They are also low in calories, with about 16 calories per 100 g. Vinegar aids digestion, and mustard provides important antioxidants for the body.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use cucumbers of other varieties?
Yes, but make sure they are crunchy and fresh for the best results.
- How long can I keep the pickles in jars?
If stored properly, they can last up to a year. Check the seals of the jars before use.
- What else can I add to vary the recipe?
You can add sliced carrots or peppers to create a mixed vegetable pickle.

Indulge in these delicious Nico's cucumbers, which will not only enrich your meal but also bring a touch of nostalgia and tradition to every bite. Enjoy!