Pickled cucumbers (Motan recipe)

Pickled Cucumbers Recipe - A Summer Delicacy for Winter

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 24-26 jars of 800 ml

Pickled cucumbers are an excellent choice for preserving the taste of summer throughout the year. This recipe, inspired by old traditions, combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with spices and vinegar, creating a perfect accompaniment for winter meals. Additionally, these cucumbers can be stored for up to two years without losing their taste or texture. Let's see together how to prepare these delicious cucumbers!

Ingredients:

For 24-26 jars of 800 ml, you will need the following ingredients:

For cucumbers:
- 10 kg small, thin cucumbers
- 5 roots of horseradish (approximately 2 cm in diameter)
- 6-7 sprigs of dried dill
- 5 medium-sized onions

For the marinade:
- 1 L 9% wine vinegar
- 5 L water
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (per liter of mixture)
- 1 tablespoon of salt (per liter of mixture)
- 5-7 peppercorns (per liter of mixture)
- 1 bay leaf (per liter of mixture)
- ½ teaspoon of mustard seeds (per liter of mixture)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
1. Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. It is essential to clean them thoroughly of any impurities.
2. Peel the onions and slice them into 5-6 mm thick pieces.
3. Clean the horseradish roots, then cut them into pieces of about 4 cm and quarter them to make them easier to fit into jars.

Step 2: Sterilizing the Jars
1. Wash the 800 ml jars with warm water and detergent, then rinse them well.
2. Sterilize the jars in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes, then let them cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Jars
1. In each jar, add 1-2 dried dill flowers, a pinch of mustard seeds, 3-4 horseradish quarters, and a slice of onion.
2. Carefully pack the cucumbers into the jars, leaving as little space as possible between them.
3. On top, place a sprig of dill in a cross shape, a slice of onion, and 3-4 horseradish quarters.

Step 4: Preparing the Marinade
1. In a large pot, combine 1 L of vinegar, 5 L of water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, bay leaf, and mustard seeds.
2. Boil the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to dissolve the salt and sugar.

Step 5: Filling the Jars
1. Place the jars on a wooden rack or tray to prevent them from breaking when in contact with hot liquid.
2. Carefully pour the boiling marinade into each jar, filling them to the brim. Gently shake the jars to allow air to escape and top up with marinade if necessary.

Step 6: Processing the Jars
1. Place the lids on the jars and arrange them in a large pot, covered with newspapers to prevent breaking.
2. Add water to the pot until it reaches just below the lids and boil the jars for 15 minutes, starting the timer when the lids become hot.

Step 7: Cooling and Storing
1. Remove the jars from the water and wrap them in a blanket to cool gradually.
2. Let them sit covered for 1-2 days. Once completely cooled, you can store them in a pantry or cellar.

Practical Tips:
- Make sure to use fresh cucumbers, free from spots or imperfections, to achieve the best results.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of hot pepper to the jars.
- Wine vinegar is preferred, but you can also use apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor.
- It is important to let the cucumbers marinate for at least 3 weeks before consuming them to allow the flavors to develop.

Nutritional Benefits:
Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Yes, you can add carrots, green tomatoes, or even slices of beetroot to create varied combinations.

2. How long can I keep the jars?
These cucumbers can be stored for up to 2 years as long as they are kept in a cool, dark place.

3. What dishes pair well with pickled cucumbers?
Pickled cucumbers are an excellent accompaniment to roasts, salads, or sandwiches, providing a delicious contrast of flavors.

So, don't miss the chance to try this simple and delicious pickled cucumber recipe! It's a fantastic way to preserve the taste of summer and bring a touch of freshness to your winter meals. Enjoy!