Pickled cucumbers with potatoes

Pickled cucumbers with potatoes – a traditional recipe with a special secret

Pickled cucumbers are a delight that reminds us of summers spent with family, when pickles were a staple on the festive table. This recipe for pickled cucumbers, which I received from a wise monk, promises to offer a crunchy texture and a unique taste. The potato, the surprise ingredient, plays an essential role in the fermentation process, ensuring that the cucumbers remain crisp and delicious.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 1-2 weeks (depending on personal preferences)
Number of servings: 4 jars of 1 liter

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh cucumbers (choose small, charming cucumbers, preferably from the garden)
- 1 medium potato (cut in half)
- 1-2 hot peppers (optional, depending on how spicy you want it)
- 2-3 slices of horseradish (fresh, for an intense taste)
- 1 tablespoon of coarse salt (about 30 g)
- 1 liter of water
- 1-2 sprigs of dried thyme
- 1-2 sprigs of dried dill
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 2-3 bay leaves

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to choose the youngest and freshest ones to obtain crunchy pickles. Once cleaned, you can trim the ends, but this is not a strict rule.

2. Preparing the brine: Boil 1 liter of water in a pot. When the water boils, add the salt, thyme, dill, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved. Once you have an aromatic brine, let the liquid cool to room temperature. It is essential that the brine is warm, not hot, when you pour it over the cucumbers.

3. Assembling the jar: At the bottom of each 1-liter jar, place a sprig of thyme, a sprig of dried dill, and half of the cut potato. This will help infuse flavors into the cucumbers and support the fermentation process.

4. Adding the cucumbers: Start placing the cucumbers in the jar, being careful to pack them tightly but without crushing them. Add a few slices of horseradish and hot pepper between layers for a spicy taste, but don’t overdo it if you’re not a fan of spice. Continue adding cucumbers until the jar is full.

5. Finalizing the jar: Once you have finished placing the cucumbers, top with the remaining half of the potato. This will help keep the cucumbers crunchy. Carefully pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are completely covered.

6. Fermentation: Close the jar with a lid, but do not tighten it too much. Leave the jars at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. During this time, the cucumbers will start the fermentation process. It is recommended to check the jars daily and gently shake them to distribute the brine evenly.

7. The final taste: After about 1-2 weeks, your cucumbers will be ready for tasting. You can store them in the refrigerator or in a cool place to stop the fermentation process.

Serving suggestions:
Pickled cucumbers with potatoes are delicious as a side dish alongside meat dishes or can be enjoyed as an appetizer. You can pair them with goat cheese or a fresh salad, and for a truly special meal, serve them with a glass of plum brandy or white wine.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are rich in water and contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. The fermentation process adds probiotics, which help maintain gut health. The potato, although it may seem like an unusual ingredient, provides fiber and nutrients, contributing to successful fermentation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use large cucumbers for this recipe?
Answer: It is recommended to use small cucumbers, as they pickle more evenly and have a crunchier texture.

2. How can I tell if the cucumbers are ready?
Answer: The cucumbers will take on a darker color and have a pleasant sour taste.

3. Can I add other spices?
Answer: Of course! You can experiment with garlic, cumin, or fresh dill, depending on your preferences.

This recipe for pickled cucumbers with potatoes will not only enrich your meal but also add a touch of tradition and history to your kitchen. So, don’t hesitate to try it and share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy!