Pickles

Pickled cucumbers with vegetables and spices - a traditional recipe full of flavor

Pickled cucumbers are a delight that we all love, especially when made with care and patience. This recipe, which I received from my boyfriend's mother, transforms fresh cucumbers into a savory snack, perfect to accompany main dishes or to be enjoyed on their own. Moreover, this pickling process is an ancient art that not only preserves the vegetables but also enriches their flavor, bringing a touch of magic to every meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 3-7 days (depending on preferences)
Number of servings: approximately 10 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- Approximately 3 kg of fresh cucumbers
- 2 bunches of dried dill
- 1 celery with leaves
- 3 carrots
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 3 hot peppers
- 7 tablespoons of non-iodized coarse salt (for water)

Preparing the pickles - Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the cucumbers well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. Similarly, wash the other vegetables. Clean the celery and cut it into cubes. Don’t forget to wash the celery leaves and tear them into smaller pieces. Slice the carrots and garlic into rounds, and you can leave the hot peppers whole or cut them in half, depending on how spicy you like your pickles.

2. Preparing the brine: In a large pot, add 5 liters of water and 7 tablespoons of non-iodized coarse salt. Mix well until the salt completely dissolves. Then, place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once the water boils, turn off the heat and let the brine cool completely.

3. Assembling the pickles: In a 5-liter jar (or a large glass jar), place a bunch of dried dill at the bottom. Break the dill stems into smaller pieces and add them as well. Continue with a layer of cucumbers, and among them, add some pieces of carrot, pepper, garlic, and celery leaves. Repeat this process, alternating layers, until the jar is full. Finally, add the other bunch of dill and a few celery leaves on top.

4. Pouring the brine: Once the brine has cooled, carefully pour it over the cucumbers, ensuring it seeps well among the vegetables. Continue to fill with water up to the edge of the jar. It is important that the vegetables are completely covered with brine to prevent oxidation.

5. Fermentation: Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm spot (but not in direct sunlight) for 3-7 days, depending on how sour you like your cucumbers. Check them daily and ensure they are always covered by the brine. If you notice foam forming, this is normal and part of the fermentation process.

6. Enjoying: Once the cucumbers have reached the desired level of sourness, you can transfer them to smaller jars and keep them in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats, in salads, or simply as a healthy snack.

Practical tips:
- Choose smaller cucumbers, as they pickle better and are crunchier.
- If you want to add a special touch, you can include some peppercorns or bay leaves in the brine.
- Always check the brine level to ensure the vegetables are completely covered and do not oxidize.
- Pickled cucumbers are an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long can I keep pickled cucumbers?
- Once opened, pickled cucumbers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

2. Can I use other vegetables?
- Yes, you can experiment with carrots, cauliflower, or onions, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I adjust the salt level?
- If you prefer less salty pickles, you can reduce the amount of salt in the brine, but be careful not to affect the fermentation process.

Combine these pickled cucumbers with a beet salad or a serving of grilled meat, and your meal will be truly special. You can accompany this delicacy with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Remember, every recipe is a story, and preparing these pickled cucumbers is a journey full of tradition, love, and flavors. So, put on your apron, get ready to have fun, and bring a touch of joy to your kitchen!