Pickled cucumbers

Delicious Pickled Cucumbers Recipe in Brine – Grandma's Recipe

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Pickling time: 3 weeks
Number of servings: 4.25 kg of pickled cucumbers

Pickled cucumbers in brine are a delicacy that reminds us of summers spent in grandma's yard, where fresh flavors and garden ingredients transformed into savory pickles. This simple and healthy recipe, without vinegar, is a traditional method of preserving vegetables, full of taste and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients you need:

- 2 kg of cucumbers (as fresh as possible, preferably from the garden)
- 3 carrots (sliced into rounds or lengthwise, as preferred)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (peeled)
- 3-4 pieces of cleaned horseradish (about 4-5 cm each)
- 2 sprigs of thyme (fresh or dried)
- 2-3 sprigs of dried dill
- 2-3 stalks with celery leaves
- Cherry leaves (for flavor and crunch)
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for a touch of spiciness)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of coarse salt (per 1 liter of water)
- Water (hot, after boiling)

Preparing the pickles:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the cucumbers very well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities, as they can affect the quality of the pickles. Also, wash the jars in which you will store the cucumbers. You can sterilize them in hot water to ensure there are no bacteria.

2. Arranging the ingredients: At the bottom of each jar, place a few cherry leaves, celery sprigs, and dill. These will not only add flavor but will also help maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers. Continue adding the cucumbers, and if you want to add carrots, now is the time. Arrange them as you prefer – rounds or lengthwise. Add the cloves of garlic and the cleaned horseradish.

3. Seasoning: After you have arranged all the ingredients, add a few more cherry leaves, celery, and dill on top. This layer will help preserve the flavors and protect the vegetables.

4. Preparing the brine: In a pot, add water and salt, respecting the ratio of 1 heaping tablespoon of salt to 1 liter of water. Bring the water to a boil until it starts to bubble. After it has boiled, carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jar, ensuring they are completely covered.

5. Sealing: Place the lids on the jars, but do not tighten them too much, to allow gases to escape during fermentation.

6. Fermentation: Place the jars in a cool, dark place at room temperature. After about 3 weeks, your pickled cucumbers will be ready to enjoy! Check the jars from time to time to ensure the brine covers the vegetables.

Practical tips:

- Choose small, crunchy cucumbers: Smaller cucumbers are better for pickling, as they keep better and are more flavorful.
- Horseradish and cherry leaves: These ingredients not only add flavor but also help maintain the crunchy texture of the cucumbers. If you don't have cherry leaves, an oak leaf is a good substitute.
- Watch out for salt: It is essential to use coarse salt specifically for pickling, as fine salt can lead to unsatisfactory results.
- Customize the recipe: You can add extra spices, such as peppercorns or fresh dill, to give a personal touch.

Nutritional benefits:

Pickled cucumbers are an excellent source of probiotics, which aid digestive health. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, which is important for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long can I keep pickled cucumbers?
Pickled cucumbers can be kept for several months if stored in a cool, dark place.

- How can I check if the cucumbers are good?
Pickled cucumbers should have a tangy taste and a pleasant aroma. If you notice an unpleasant smell or mold, you should discard them.

- Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add carrots, cauliflower, or even peppers. Each vegetable will add a unique flavor to your pickles.

Serving suggestion:

Pickled cucumbers are a perfect accompaniment to meat dishes, salads, or even as a snack between meals. You can serve them alongside a plum brandy or a dry white wine for a truly authentic culinary experience.

In conclusion, this pickled cucumber recipe in brine is more than just a simple recipe; it is a connection to tradition and the taste of childhood. Each jar is a story, so don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones!