Easy Pickled Cucumbers

by CookeryHQ

Prep: 15 minsCooking: 60 minsServes 4

Instructions

Step 1
Note on cooking time, which is actually the minimum pickling time, which ideally would be 1 to 24 hours.
1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and color. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. If the cucumbers are large and have big seeds, consider removing the seeds by scooping them out with a spoon.
2. Prepare the Brine: In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar and salt dissolve. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the sugar and salt are completely dissolved and the mixture is simmering, remove the pan from heat.
3. Add Flavorings: Add the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, and any optional flavorings like sliced onion or dill to the hot brine. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Pack the Cucumbers: Pack the sliced cucumbers into clean, sterilized glass jars. If using dill, you can place a few sprigs of fresh dill or a teaspoon of dill seeds in each jar.
5. Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the hot brine mixture over the cucumbers in the jars, ensuring that the cucumbers are fully submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar.
6. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before sealing them with their lids. Once cooled, place the jars in the refrigerator.
7. Let Them Pickle: For optimal flavor, let the pickles sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before enjoying. The longer they sit, the more the flavors will develop. They should be ready to enjoy within 24 hours.
8. Enjoy: Your homemade pickled cucumbers are now ready to be enjoyed! They make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, burgers, and as a tangy snack on their own.

Recipe Story

Hey there, lovely folks! Today, we're diving into a classic culinary adventure that's as crisp and refreshing as a summer breeze – homemade pickled cucumbers! Picture this: tangy, slightly sweet, and with a hint of spice, these beauties are the perfect accompaniment to your sandwiches, salads, and BBQ spreads. So, let's take a journey through time and flavors as we explore the art of pickling cucumbers.

Pickling isn't just about preserving food; it's a culinary tradition that has woven its way through cultures and cuisines for centuries. From ancient Mesopotamia to the bustling markets of Renaissance Europe, the practice of pickling emerged as a way to extend the shelf life of seasonal produce, ensuring a taste of sunshine even during the coldest months. Fast forward to today, and we're putting our modern twist on this age-old technique, creating pickles that burst with homemade goodness.

Now, imagine strolling through a vibrant farmers' market, where baskets overflow with cucumbers of all shapes and sizes. As we gather our ingredients, it's important to choose the freshest cucumbers, crisp and ready to soak up the flavourful brine we'll create. With a handful of pantry staples – think vinegar, sugar, and spices – we'll concoct a brine that's a balance of zing and sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some smashed garlic cloves, fiery red pepper flakes, and aromatic mustard seeds. These ingredients will mingle in a symphony of taste, infusing each slice of cucumber with a melody of flavours.

And don't worry, this isn't a culinary masterpiece that requires hours of toil. In fact, our pickled cucumbers are a quick and easy treat to whip up. Just a little slicing, a simmering of the brine, a sprinkle of spices, and a jar to work its magic. A mere hour of patience – or longer if you can resist – and you'll be rewarded with pickles that are as vibrant in flavour as they are in colour.

So, my friends, whether you're planning a picnic, a Sunday brunch, or simply want to elevate your everyday meals, these homemade pickled cucumbers are your ticket to tangy, crunchy, and utterly delightful bites. Get ready to savour the tastes of tradition and innovation all in one bite. Let's get pickling!