Pickled cucumbers

Pickled Cucumbers: A Recipe Passed Down with Love

Pickled cucumbers are more than just a simple condiment; they represent a culinary tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. This recipe is one of those that my mother successfully used year after year, and now I have decided to share it with you. I will guide you step by step to achieve crunchy and flavorful cucumbers that will delight your taste buds and remind you of family moments. These cucumbers keep excellently, even for months, so get ready to fill your pantry with this delicacy.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time (actually, marinating): 3 days (but it is a step-by-step marinade)
Servings: 5 kg of pickled cucumbers

Ingredients:

- 5 kg small cucumbers
- 5 tablespoons coarse salt
- 2 carrots
- 6-7 cloves of garlic
- 1 hot pepper
- 1 piece of horseradish
- fresh dill
- oak leaves
- celery leaves

Preparing the Pickled Cucumbers:

1. Preparing the Cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers very well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to clean them of any impurities, as cleanliness is essential in the pickling process.

2. The Jar for Pickling: Choose a 5 kg jar or, if you prefer, you can use smaller jars. This will allow you to have smaller portions that are easy to store. Arrange the cucumbers in the jar, being careful to pack them tightly but without crushing them.

3. Preparing the Brine: In a large pot, add 5 liters of water and 5 tablespoons of coarse salt. Put the pot on the heat and wait until the mixture comes to a boil. This hot brine will penetrate well into the cucumbers, giving them an intense flavor.

4. Meeting the Brine: Carefully pour the hot water over the cucumbers in the jar. Cover the jar with plastic wrap to protect it from impurities. This first step is done in the evening, so the cucumbers have time to soak in the flavors.

5. The Second Day: The next morning, drain the liquid from the jar and put it back in the pot. Bring it to a boil and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. This is an excellent method to intensify the flavors.

6. Adding the Aromatic Vegetables: The carrot should be peeled and cut into rounds, and the horseradish into pieces – these vegetables will add a touch of freshness and a distinct taste. The hot pepper is cleaned of seeds and cut into small pieces. The garlic is peeled and sliced. All these ingredients are added to the jar, along with the oak leaves, dill, and celery leaves.

7. Finalizing the Process: After adding all the ingredients, cover the jar again with plastic wrap and tie it at the mouth of the jar. Leave it in the kitchen until the next day to allow the flavors to develop.

8. Preserving the Cucumbers: After 24 hours, you can move the jar to a cool place, preferably a pantry or a refrigerator. Your pickled cucumbers will be ready in a few days, and their flavor will continue to develop!

Useful Tips:

- Choosing the Cucumbers: Opt for small cucumbers, as they pickle better and become crunchy. Make sure they are fresh and blemish-free.
- The Salt: Use coarse pickling salt, as it helps maintain the texture and flavor.
- The Spicy Version: If you like a more intense flavor, you can add more hot peppers or even spices like smoked paprika.

Nutritional Benefits:
Pickled cucumbers are rich in probiotics, which help maintain digestive health. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy snack.

Delicious Combinations:
Pickled cucumbers are perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or even in salads. You can serve them with a refreshing drink, such as iced mint tea or lemonade with ice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- How long do pickled cucumbers last?
Pickled cucumbers can be kept for up to several months if stored properly.

- How can I check if the cucumbers are good?
Check if the jar is sealed. If you notice unpleasant odors or mold, it is better not to consume them.

- Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can experiment by adding cauliflower, carrots, or even beets to create varied and interesting pickles.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! These pickled cucumbers will surely add a touch of flavor to your meal. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 5 kg small cucumbers, 5 tablespoons coarse salt, 2 carrots, 6-7 cloves of garlic, 1 hot pepper, dill, oak leaves, 1 horseradish, celery leaves

 Tags:  cucumbers hot pepper