Pickled vegetables are a classic favorite for many, and pickled cucumbers stand out as one of the most versatile and delicious options. Whether you’re adding them to a sandwich, eating them as a side dish, or just snacking on them straight from the jar, pickled cucumbers have a unique tangy flavor that’s hard to resist. If you’ve ever made pickles yourself, you’ll know that one jar is never enough! For a batch that’s sure to last, why not make a few extra bottles at once? Let’s dive into how you can make your own homemade pickled cucumbers and have them ready for whenever you crave a crunchy, flavorful treat.
Why This Recipe Works
This pickled cucumber recipe works because it uses a balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors that complement the cucumbers perfectly. The brine of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt soaks into the cucumbers and carrots, infusing them with bold flavors. The addition of spices like mustard seeds, coriander, and red pepper flakes enhances the taste and gives the pickles an extra zing. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, while the result is full of depth. With a quick preparation time and minimal ingredients, you’ll have a batch of homemade pickles in no time.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
For a large batch of pickled cucumbers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Cucumbers: 6-7 medium-sized cucumbers (you can use any variety, but pickling cucumbers work best).
Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds.
Vinegar: 2 cups of distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a more tangy flavor.
Water: 2 cups of water.
Sugar: 1/4 cup of white sugar.
Salt: 2 tablespoons of sea salt or kosher salt.
Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed.
Mustard seeds: 1 tablespoon.
Coriander seeds: 1 tablespoon.
Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste).
Black peppercorns: 1 tablespoon.
Fresh dill: A handful of fresh dill sprigs (optional but adds extra flavor).
How To Make This Recipe
Making pickled cucumbers at home is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Prepare the cucumbers and carrots:
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into thin rounds or spears, depending on your preference.
Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds. Set them aside.
Sterilize the jars:
Clean your glass jars by boiling them in hot water or running them through the dishwasher. This step ensures the jars are bacteria-free and helps preserve the pickles for a longer shelf life.
Make the brine:
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Once it boils, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
Prepare the spices:
In the sterilized jars, add the garlic, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. If you’re using dill, add a few sprigs to each jar.
Pack the cucumbers and carrots:
Carefully pack the cucumber slices and carrot rounds into the jars. Try to pack them tightly but without crushing them.
Pour the brine:
Pour the brine into the jars, covering the cucumbers and carrots completely. Leave a small amount of space at the top of the jar (about 1 inch).
Seal the jars:
Close the jars tightly with the lids. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate and wait:
Once the jars have cooled, place them in the refrigerator. For best results, let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before tasting. The flavors will continue to develop over the next few days.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
Use fresh, firm cucumbers: Pick cucumbers that are firm and not overripe. They will hold up better during the pickling process and provide that perfect crunch.
Don’t skip the sterilizing step: This ensures that your pickles are safe to eat and will last longer in the fridge.
Adjust the spice levels: If you prefer your pickles spicier, add more red pepper flakes or even some fresh chili peppers to the jar.
Experiment with other spices: Feel free to try other spices like turmeric or fennel seeds to create a unique flavor.
Ensure the cucumbers are submerged: If the cucumbers float above the brine, use a small weight or a clean stone to keep them submerged. This helps prevent spoilage.
For a quicker pickling process: If you want to make quick pickles, reduce the refrigerating time. Quick pickles only need about 6 hours before they are ready to enjoy, though the flavor improves with time.
How To Serve This Recipe
Pickled cucumbers are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas for serving:
As a Snack: Simply grab a few slices from the jar and enjoy them as a crunchy, tangy treat. They are a perfect option for a light snack between meals.
On Sandwiches or Burgers: Add some pickled cucumbers to your sandwiches, burgers, or wraps to elevate the flavor with that tangy crunch. It pairs especially well with deli meats and creamy spreads.
On Salads: Use pickled cucumbers as a topping for your salads. Their sharpness balances well with fresh greens, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
As a Side Dish: Serve them as a side dish to complement grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even seafood. They help cut through the richness of fatty dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pickled cucumbers with a cheese platter. The tartness complements sharp cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese.
Serve them alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak for a flavorful contrast.
Include pickled cucumbers in your Mediterranean-style meal with pita bread, hummus, and olives.
Time Needed for This Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Brine Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickling Time: Minimum 24 hours for best flavor (but you can start tasting them after 6 hours)
Total Time: Around 1 hour for preparation, with an additional 24 hours for pickling.
Conclusion
Pickled cucumbers are an easy and satisfying recipe to make at home, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe gives you the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy in every jar. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, you can have a batch ready in no time. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, in sandwiches, or as a side dish, homemade pickles will be a favorite addition to your kitchen. So, why not make five jars at a time? You’ll have plenty to share and enjoy for weeks to come.
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