Pickled cucumbers (Bulgarian)

Delicious Pickled Cucumber Recipe

Pickled cucumbers are a delicacy that enriches our meals, bringing that note of freshness and crunch that only a well-made pickle can offer. This recipe is a classic, perfect for those who love balanced flavors, not too sour and not too sweet. Whether you serve them alongside a juicy steak or add them to salads, these cucumbers will undoubtedly become a favorite in your pantry.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Sterilization time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh cucumbers (preferably with thin skin)
- 2 medium onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 root of horseradish (about 100 g)
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1 bunch of dried dill
- 10 black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 200 ml vinegar (about 9%)
- Water (enough to fill the jars)
- Celery leaves (optional, for flavor)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers under a stream of cold water. It is important to choose fresh, firm cucumbers without blemishes. After washing, let them drain for a few minutes.

2. Cleaning and slicing the ingredients:
- Peel the onion and slice it thinly. Make sure the slices are uniform to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the jars.
- The garlic is peeled and left whole, but you can also opt to slice it if you prefer a stronger taste.
- The horseradish root is peeled, washed, and sliced thinly. The horseradish will add a spicy flavor and a unique aroma to your pickles.

3. Preparing the jar: Use 800g jars that should be well washed and dried. It is essential to ensure that the jars are clean to avoid contamination of the pickles.

4. Assembling the ingredients in jars:
- In each jar, place a stalk of celery, a slice of horseradish, two slices of onion, and a clove of garlic. Add a few peppercorns and then arrange the cucumbers vertically, as tightly as possible, to maximize the quantity that can be added.
- Continue to add ingredients until the jar is full, leaving a little space at the top.

5. Preparing the pickling solution:
- In each jar, add a teaspoon of coarse salt, a teaspoon of sugar, and 50 ml of vinegar.
- Fill the jar with water, leaving a little space for the expansion of the ingredients.

6. Finalizing the process:
- Add a celery leaf on top for extra flavor if desired.
- Close the jars with the lids tightly, ensuring they are sealed.

7. Sterilizing the jars:
- Place the jars in a large pot and fill it with water so that the jars are completely covered.
- Put the pot on the stove and let it boil for 10-15 minutes. You will notice that as time passes, the cucumbers will change color from green to yellow.
- Turn off the heat and leave the jars in hot water until the next day or until the water cools completely.

8. Storing:
- After cooling, remove the jars from the water, wipe them carefully, and label them. Store them in a cool, dark pantry where they will keep well for several months.

Useful tips:
- If you like spicier pickles, add a few slices of hot pepper in each jar.
- You can substitute horseradish with dill root for a milder flavor.
- Make sure the jars are very well sterilized to prevent uncontrolled fermentation.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, having a low calorie content (about 15 calories per 100 g). They are high in water, making them ideal for hydration. Garlic and horseradish have antibacterial properties and can support the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long do pickled cucumbers last?
Pickled cucumbers can be kept in the pantry for 6-12 months, as long as they are stored under proper conditions.

- Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to include carrots, cauliflower, or peppers, so you have a varied selection of pickles.

- What can I serve with pickled cucumbers?
These pickles are excellent alongside steaks, sandwiches, or even in salads. You can also try serving them with a refreshing drink or a cocktail.

I wish you a good appetite and hope this recipe becomes part of your annual culinary traditions! Pickled cucumbers are not only a tasty choice but also an excellent way to preserve fresh vegetables for a longer time. Don't forget to share the final result with your loved ones!