Pickles

Pickled Cucumbers – A Delicious Canning Recipe

Pickled cucumbers are a delicacy that should not be missing from any pantry, especially during the warm season. This simple and effective recipe will guide you step by step in the art of pickling, so you can enjoy jars full of crunchy and aromatic cucumbers. Additionally, I will share some useful tricks and tips to ensure perfect preservation, as well as interesting variations of the recipe.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6 kg of cucumbers (approximately 12–15 jars)

Ingredients:

- 6 kg cucumbers
- Horseradish (approximately 200 g)
- Coarse salt (1 tablespoon of salt per 1 liter of water)
- Celery leaves (a few)
- Garlic (5-6 cloves)
- Bay leaves (4-5 leaves)
- Mustard seeds (2-3 tablespoons)
- Peppercorns (1-2 tablespoons)
- Dried dill (1-2 tablespoons)
- Thyme (1 tablespoon)
- 9-degree vinegar (1 cup per 5 liters of water)
- Cellophane (for sealing)
- Egg white (optional, for sealing)
- Water (approximately 5 liters)

Step by step for a perfect recipe:

1. Preparing the jars: Start by washing the jars thoroughly with hot water and detergent. Rinse them several times with running water to remove any detergent residue. An effective method is to place them on a knife so they are suspended and sterilize them by pouring hot water over them. This is an essential step to prevent contamination.

2. Cleaning the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers well under running water, using a clean sponge to remove any dirt or impurities. Discard cucumbers with spots or damage, as they can affect the quality of the pickles.

3. Preparing the brine: Boil water with salt to prepare the brine. The standard ratio is 1 tablespoon of salt per 1 liter of water. Make sure you have enough water to cover all the cucumbers.

4. Arranging the ingredients in jars: At the bottom of the jar, place a few slices of horseradish, followed by the cucumbers arranged upright. Between them, add the spices: a few sprigs of dill, celery leaves, peppercorns, bay leaves, and mustard seeds. This will give a special flavor to the pickles.

5. Filling with brine: After boiling the salted water, add one cup of 9-degree vinegar and let it boil for another 5-10 minutes. Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are completely covered. Seal the jars with tightly closed lids.

6. Sealing the jars: If you choose to use cellophane to seal the jars, beat an egg white and apply it to the mouth of the jar before placing the damp cellophane. This will help with sealing. Use sewing thread to tie the cellophane securely, ensuring it won’t open.

7. Cooling and storage: Cover the jars with blankets and let them cool completely until the next day. This step is important to allow the cucumbers to absorb the flavors.

Useful tips:

- Get helpers: Pickling can be a fun family activity. Involve your loved ones, and you’ll create beautiful memories while finishing faster.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as hot peppers or coriander, to give a personal touch to the pickles.
- Storage conditions: Pickled cucumbers can be stored in a cool, dark place, and well-sterilized ones will last longer.

Nutritional benefits:

Pickled cucumbers are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, which supports bone health, and antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative stress. Additionally, consuming pickles can support digestion due to natural probiotics.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use larger cucumbers?: It is preferable to choose smaller cucumbers, as they pickle better and remain crunchy.
2. What if I don’t have horseradish?: Horseradish is important for keeping the cucumbers crunchy, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it, although the result may be different.
3. How long can I keep the pickles?: If well preserved, pickled cucumbers can last up to a year, but it’s best to consume them within 6-9 months for the best flavor.

Interesting variations:

- Cucumbers with peppers: Add a few hot peppers to the jars for a spicy pickle.
- Mixed pickles: Combine cucumbers with other vegetables, such as carrots or cauliflower, to create a variety of flavors.

Pickled cucumbers are an excellent choice to add a splash of freshness and flavor to your meal. Whether you serve them alongside a juicy steak or as an appetizer, they will always bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces. Happy cooking and pickling!