Spicy cucumbers with red beet in brine

Spicy Cucumbers with Red Beet in Brine

Who doesn't love a crunchy dish, full of flavors and vibrant colors? Spicy cucumbers with red beet in brine are exactly the kind of recipe that blends tradition with culinary creativity. This recipe not only offers an explosion of tastes but also provides an excellent way to preserve vegetables, making them available year-round. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 24-48 hours (depending on preference)
Number of servings: 4 jars of 500ml

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh cucumbers
- 1 medium red beet
- 1 large chili pepper
- 1 piece of horseradish
- A handful of cherry leaves
- Dried dill, flowers, and stems
- Mustard seeds

For brine:
- 1 liter water
- 1 tablespoon salt (sea salt or non-iodized salt is preferred for a cleaner taste)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. It is important to choose the freshest ones, with smooth skin, as they will provide the best texture. Cut off the ends of the cucumbers and slice them into not-too-thin rounds, about 1 cm thick. These will absorb the flavors from the brine and remain crunchy.

2. Red beet: Peel the red beet and grate it using a large grater. The beet will add not only a sweet-dark flavor but also a vibrant color to your dish.

3. Chili pepper and horseradish: Slice the chili pepper into thin rings, being careful to remove the seeds if you prefer a bit less heat. Peel the horseradish and cut it into thin strips. This will add a spicy and aromatic note.

4. Vegetable mix: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, grated beet, and chili pepper slices. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

5. Preparing the jars: Before you start filling the jars, wash them well and sterilize them. Place a few mustard seeds and dill flowers at the bottom of each jar. Then, add the prepared vegetable mix. The horseradish can be added among the vegetables, depending on your preference.

6. Cherry leaves: Add a few cherry leaves on top of the mixture in the jars. They not only contribute to the flavor but also help preserve the vegetables.

7. Securing the mixture: Use a few dill sprigs to secure the mixture, ensuring that nothing rises to the surface during fermentation.

8. Preparing the brine: In a pot, bring the water to a boil, then add the salt. Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved. When the brine boils, turn off the heat and use a ladle to pour the warm brine over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring they are completely covered.

9. Fermentation: Cover the jars with lids, but do not seal them tightly. Leave them at room temperature for 24-48 hours, depending on how fermented you prefer the vegetables. After this period, move the jars to the refrigerator. They will keep for several months, but are most delicious in the first weeks.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more complex flavor, you can add spices like garlic or peppercorns to the brine.
- Replace the beet with carrots or cabbage to experiment with new flavor combinations.
- Use jars of different sizes to adapt the recipe to your needs.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water, making them ideal for hydration. Red beet is full of antioxidants and vitamins, while horseradish has antibacterial properties. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy!

Serving suggestions:
These spicy cucumbers with red beet are excellent as a side dish for grilled meat, but can also be served as a crunchy appetizer alongside aged cheese and a refreshing drink, such as mint lemonade or a gin cocktail.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of cucumbers?
Yes, you can experiment with carrots, cabbage, or even radishes to achieve a variety of flavors.

2. How long can I keep the jars in the refrigerator?
Fermented cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator for several months, but they are best in the first weeks after preparation.

3. What can I do if the brine does not completely cover the vegetables?
Make sure the vegetables are tightly packed and use dill sprigs to secure them. If necessary, you can add a little extra brine.

With this simple recipe for spicy cucumbers with red beet in brine, you'll add a splash of flavor and color to your meal. Enjoy this explosion of flavors and savor every bite!