Seasonal pickled cucumbers

Seasonal pickled cucumbers: a quick and delicious recipe

The warm season brings not only sunshine and outdoor parties but also an abundance of fresh vegetables waiting to be transformed into pickled delights. Today, I invite you to discover the magic of pickled cucumbers, a simple yet flavorful recipe. This dish will add a touch of freshness and taste to every meal, and the method I will share will provide you with sour and crunchy cucumbers, perfect to enjoy alongside a steak or in sandwiches.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Waiting time: 3-4 days
Number of servings: 4-6 jars of 400 ml

Necessary ingredients

- 1-2 kg of cucumbers (choose small and crunchy ones for the best pickles)
- 1 slice of white bread (preferably homemade, without preservatives)
- 1-2 hot peppers (to taste, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon of dried dill
- For the brine:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- a few black peppercorns
- 3-4 bay leaves

Preparing the pickled cucumbers

1. Wash the cucumbers: The first essential step is to wash the cucumbers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dirt, as cleanliness is key to achieving healthy pickles.

2. Prepare the jars: Choose clean jars, preferably sterilized, to prevent the growth of bacteria. You can do this by boiling them or washing them in the dishwasher.

3. Assemble the ingredients in the jar: Place the cucumbers in the jar along with the thyme, dried dill, and hot pepper. The cucumber slices can be arranged vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Add the slice of bread: Place the slice of white bread on top of the cucumbers. This will aid in fermentation and give a unique flavor to your pickles.

5. Prepare the brine: In a pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil, add the salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved.

6. Pour the brine: When the brine reaches boiling point, pour it hot over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully covered. This step is crucial for allowing the cucumbers to pickle evenly.

7. Cover and wait: Cover the jar or pot with a lid or a clean towel and leave it in a warm, dark place for 3-4 days. During this time, the cucumbers will start to ferment and sour.

8. Storage: After 3-4 days, taste the cucumbers. If they are to your liking, transfer them to the refrigerator or a cool place to slow down fermentation. This will preserve the flavor and crunchy texture of the pickles.

Useful tips

- Choose fresh cucumbers: Buy cucumbers from the market or your garden, ensuring they are young and crunchy. Larger cucumbers may be less tasty.
- Flavor varieties: You can experiment with different herbs and spices. Add a clove of garlic or celery leaves for extra flavor.
- Spicier brine: If you like spicier pickles, add more hot peppers or even a few slices of ginger.
- Whole grain bread: Try using whole grain bread for a more complex flavor, but ensure it contains no additives.

Nutritional benefits

Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in water, which makes them ideal for hydration. They contain vitamins K, C, and various antioxidants, having a low caloric content, making them a perfect choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, you can use different types of bread. It is best to avoid bread with additives.

How long can I keep pickled cucumbers?
If kept in the refrigerator, pickled cucumbers can last up to 2-3 months.

How can I combine pickled cucumbers?
Pickled cucumbers are delicious as a side dish for steaks, in sandwiches, or even in salads. You can also use them to add flavor to hot dishes.

Final note

Pickled cucumbers are not just a simple side dish but a true culinary tradition that brings a touch of nostalgia to every meal. By preparing this recipe, you will not only serve a delicacy to your loved ones but also keep alive a part of the rich gastronomic culture. So enjoy the pickling process and don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones!