Cucumbers in vinegar (Bulgarian)

Pickled Cucumbers - A Classic and Delicious Recipe

Pickled cucumbers are a perfect choice to add a touch of freshness and crunch to your dishes. This Bulgarian cucumber recipe, with a sweet and sour taste, will take you back to summers spent with family and friends, at tables filled with delicious dishes. Preparing them is simple and doesn't take much time, but the final result is truly impressive.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Servings: 23 jars of 800-900 ml
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

- 12 kg fresh cucumbers
- 2 medium carrots
- 4-5 onions
- 23 teaspoons of pickling salt
- 46 teaspoons of sugar
- Approximately 1.4 liters of vinegar (4-5 cups)
- 23 teaspoons of mustard seeds
- 7-8 peppercorns for each jar
- Water (needed to fill the jars)

A bit of history

Pickled cucumbers have a long history in traditional cuisine, used as a way to preserve vegetables during the cold season. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation and is appreciated for its simple preparation method, as well as its unmistakable taste. Preparing them becomes not just a household activity, but also an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, share family secrets, and create pleasant memories.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients
- Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. Make sure to choose fresh, firm cucumbers without blemishes.
- Let them drain in a colander or a large bowl.

2. Cleaning and cutting the vegetables
- Peel the carrots and onions. Wash them well, then slice the onion into thin rings and the carrot into rounds.
- These vegetables not only add flavor but also a contrast of texture and color in the jar.

3. Arranging in jars
- Place the cucumbers in jars, alternating with layers of onion and carrot. It’s important to use your imagination and arrange the vegetables nicely for a pleasant presentation.
- For each jar, add a teaspoon of salt, two teaspoons of sugar, 60 ml of vinegar, a teaspoon of mustard seeds, and 7-8 peppercorns.

4. Filling and sealing the jars
- Fill the jars with water, leaving a little space at the top. This will allow the vegetables to settle and absorb the flavors.
- Seal the jars tightly with lids.

5. Boiling the jars
- Place the jars in a large pot, putting several layers of paper at the bottom to prevent them from clinking.
- Boil the jars for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to ensure the proper preservation of the vegetables.
- You will notice that during the process, the cucumbers change color, becoming brighter and more appetizing.

6. Cooling and storing
- After boiling, let the jars cool in the water they boiled in. This will help create a vacuum, ensuring optimal preservation.
- Once cooled, store the jars in a cool place, preferably in a cellar or pantry.

Useful tips

- Choosing cucumbers: Opt for small-sized cucumbers, which are crunchier and more suitable for pickling.
- Varying flavors: You can experiment with other spices, such as bay leaves or hot peppers, for a spicier taste.
- Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences, but be careful not to eliminate it completely, as it helps balance the acidity.

Nutritional benefits

Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being high in water, making them ideal for hydration. They also contain antioxidants that help maintain skin health and can aid digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can I keep pickled cucumbers?
- Cucumbers prepared this way can be stored for 6-12 months if stored correctly.

2. Can I use other vegetables in the recipe?
- Yes, you can add carrots, cauliflower, or peppers, depending on your preferences.

3. What is the best way to serve pickled cucumbers?
- Pickled cucumbers are a delicious accompaniment to cheese platters, meats, or salads. They can also be used as an ingredient in sandwiches.

Serving and combinations

Pickled cucumbers are absolutely delicious when served alongside grilled meats, salads, or sandwiches. A glass of dry white wine or a cold beer perfectly complements this dish, adding an extra flavor to your meal.

Personal notes

This pickled cucumber recipe reminds me of the moments spent in the garden with my grandmother, who patiently and lovingly explained each step. I hope you create beautiful memories around this simple and delicious recipe. Cooking is an art form, and each jar of pickles you prepare is a unique piece, full of passion and creativity.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! I can’t wait to hear about the final result of this pickled cucumber recipe. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 12 kg cucumbers, 23 jars with lids (800-900 ml), pickling salt (23 heaping teaspoons), sugar (46 teaspoons), vinegar approx. 1.4 l, 4-5 onions, 2 carrots, mustard seeds, whole peppercorns.