Cucumbers in vinegar (Bulgarian)

Pickled Cucumbers – a classic and delicious recipe for pickles

Pickled cucumbers are a delicacy that adds a touch of freshness and flavor to any meal, making them a perfect accompaniment for sandwiches, stews, or salads. This simple and quick recipe for pickled cucumbers is an excellent way to take advantage of the summer harvest and enjoy the juicy taste of cucumbers all year round.

The history of this recipe spans centuries, when people began preserving vegetables to keep them for longer periods. Pickled cucumbers quickly became a favorite, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in water, vitamins, and minerals, and the fermentation process adds beneficial probiotics for health.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Sterilization time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 720 ml

Ingredients:
- 2.4 kg medium cucumbers
- 1 carrot
- 1 small onion
- 1 heaping teaspoon pickling salt
- 1 heaping teaspoon sugar
- 1/3 teaspoon peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 4-5 tablespoons vinegar (to taste)
- Dried dill flowers
- 5-6 carrot rounds
- 1-2 onion slices
- Water (to fill the jars)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the jars: Start by sterilizing the jars and lids. It is essential to ensure they are clean to prevent bacterial growth. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or using a dishwasher on a high temperature.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Wash the cucumbers well under a stream of cold water. You can leave them whole or cut them in half, depending on your preference. If you choose to cut them, make sure the sizes are uniform for even pickling.

3. Carrot and onion: Peel the carrot and onion. Slice the carrot into thin rounds and the onion into rings. These vegetables will add a subtle flavor and a sweet-sour taste to your pickles.

4. Preparing the pickling mixture: In each jar, add: a heaping teaspoon of pickling salt, a heaping teaspoon of sugar, 1/3 teaspoon of peppercorns, a bay leaf (if using), dried dill flowers, carrot rounds, and onion slices. This mixture will give the cucumbers a delicious and complex flavor.

5. Filling the jars: Place the cucumbers in the jars, making sure to pack them tightly. Add water up to the jar's neck, then pour in 4-5 tablespoons of vinegar, depending on how tangy you like your pickles. The vinegar not only adds acidity but also helps preserve the vegetables.

6. Sealing the jars: Seal the jars and make sure they are tightly closed. This is a crucial step to prevent bacteria from entering.

7. Sterilization: Place the jars in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Sterilize over medium heat for 20 minutes from the moment the water starts boiling. This step will ensure optimal preservation of the pickles.

8. Cooling: After the sterilization time has expired, cover the pot with kitchen towels to retain heat and let the jars cool completely. This helps form a perfect seal.

9. Storage: Once the jars have cooled, store them in your pantry, in a cool, dark place. Pickled cucumbers can be consumed after a few days, but for optimal flavor, it is recommended to wait at least a week for the flavors to fully develop.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh, crunchy, medium-sized cucumbers for the best results.
- You can experiment with different spices, such as paprika or garlic, to add a personal twist to your recipe.
- If you want a spicier version, add a bit of chili pepper to each jar.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are rich in water, having a low-calorie content, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. They also contain vitamins A, C, and K, being a versatile and nutritious ingredient.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different taste.

2. How long can I keep the jars of cucumbers?
If properly sterilized, cucumbers can be kept for several months in the pantry.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the jars?
Absolutely! Many people add carrots, bell peppers, or onions, and these become just as delicious.

Pickle recipes are an essential part of culinary traditions around the world. Whether you choose to enjoy them as an appetizer alongside a cheese platter or include them in sandwiches, pickled cucumbers always add an extra burst of flavor. So, equip yourself with jars and fresh ingredients, embark on the cooking adventure, and enjoy the authentic taste of pickled cucumbers!