Pickled cucumbers for winter

Pickled Cucumbers for Winter - An Authentic Delight

Pickled cucumbers are a culinary treasure, full of flavor, that remind us of childhood tastes and joyful family meals. Preserving vegetables through pickling is an ancient practice that has been passed down through generations, serving to maintain their freshness and nutrients throughout the winter. I invite you to discover with me the recipe for pickled cucumbers, a simple yet characterful dish that will delight any table.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Pickling time: 3 days
- Total time: 3 days and 20 minutes
- Servings: Enough for approximately 10 jars of 400 ml

Necessary Ingredients
- 5 kg fresh cucumbers, preferably small and crunchy
- Approximately 8 liters of water
- 16 tablespoons of salt (preferably sea salt or non-iodized salt)
- 300 ml vinegar (9%)
- Mustard seeds
- Peppercorns
- A root of horseradish (fresh, grated or sliced)
- 10 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- Optional: onion rings, carrot, and garlic cloves

Step by Step - Your Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
- Wash the cucumbers well under cold running water, ensuring no impurities remain.
- Cut off the ends of the cucumbers, as they can affect the pickling process.

2. Salting the Cucumbers:
- In a large pot, add 8 liters of water and 16 tablespoons of salt. Bring this solution to a boil.
- Once the water has boiled, carefully pour it over the cucumbers.
- Cover the cucumbers with a plate to keep them submerged and let them sit overnight until the next day.

3. Repeating the Process:
- The next day, drain the water from the pot, but do not throw it away! Put it back on to boil.
- After the water has boiled, pour it over the cucumbers again and cover them again with the plate.
- Repeat this process on the third day when you drain the water again and add the vinegar (300 ml of vinegar to 5 liters of water).

4. Packing into Jars:
- Arrange the cucumbers in sterilized jars, making room for spices.
- Place a few mustard seeds, peppercorns, and slices of horseradish between the cucumbers for added flavor.
- If desired, you can also add onion rings, carrot, and garlic cloves for a more complex taste.

5. Finalizing the Preservation:
- Pour hot water over the cucumbers, filling the jars to the brim.
- Add a tablespoon of oil to each jar – this step helps preserve color and texture.
- Seal the jars with lids or cellophane and store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips
- Choose Quality Cucumbers: It is essential to use fresh and healthy cucumbers, free of blemishes or signs of damage. Small cucumbers are preferred for pickling, as they have a crunchier texture.
- Spices: Play a very important role in the final flavor. Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as hot pepper or dill, to create a personalized recipe.
- Jars: Ensure that the jars are well sterilized to prevent spoilage of the final product. You can sterilize them in the oven or by boiling.

Possible Variations
- Cucumbers with Peppers: Add slices of red or green peppers for a splash of color and a slightly spicy taste.
- Cucumbers with Herbs: Replace peppercorns with aromatic herbs, such as dill or oregano, to provide a fragrant aroma.

Nutritional Benefits
Pickled cucumbers are an excellent source of probiotics, which help maintain gut health. They are also low in calories and contain essential vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin C.

Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can pickled cucumbers be stored?
- If stored properly, pickled cucumbers can last up to a year.

- Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar?
- Yes, apple cider vinegar can add an interesting flavor, but make sure it is of good quality and well-filtered.

Serving Suggestions
Pickled cucumbers are perfect as a side dish with meat dishes, such as roasts or stews, but can also be enjoyed as an appetizer, alongside a slice of fresh bread and fine cheese.

Transform this simple pickled cucumber recipe into a pleasant activity with family or friends and enjoy every moment of preparation. These cucumbers are not just a simple preserve, but a family story, a tradition that will bring smiles to the faces of loved ones even on the coldest winter days. Bon Appetit!