Are you looking for a vibrant and refreshing addition to your next meal? Do you crave a quick and easy recipe that delivers a serious flavor punch? Then look no further! These spicy pickled cucumbers are the perfect solution. They're incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, yet they offer a complex and addictive flavor profile that'll elevate any dish. Perfect as a healthy snack, a crunchy side to grilled meats, or even a unique addition to sandwiches and salads, these spicy pickled cucumbers are a must-try for both seasoned home cooks and kitchen novices alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2-3 red chili peppers, finely sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the pickling cucumbers. The thinner the slices, the faster they'll pickle. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices, or a sharp knife will work perfectly fine.
Step 2: Combine the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, sliced chili peppers, minced garlic, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Step 3: Pickle the Cucumbers
Pack the sliced cucumbers tightly into a clean glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
Step 4: Cool and Refrigerate
Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it tightly with a lid. Once cooled, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. Allow the cucumbers to pickle for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for optimal flavor development. The longer they pickle, the more intense the flavor will become.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pickled Cucumbers:
- Use pickling cucumbers: These cucumbers have a firmer texture that holds up better during pickling. Regular cucumbers may become too soft.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder pickle, reduce the amount of chili peppers or omit them entirely. For extra heat, add more chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sterilize your jars: For longer shelf life, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before packing the cucumbers.
- Experiment with flavors: Add other spices like dill seeds, mustard seeds, or coriander seeds to customize the flavor of your pickles.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Increase the sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter pickle.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add 4-5 cloves of garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Ginger Zing: Add a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 20-25, Carbohydrates: 5-6g, Protein: <1g, Fat: <1g. Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This quick and easy spicy pickled cucumber recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and healthy meals. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and flavorful zest in your next meal! They're an ideal option for a quick dinner side or a refreshing snack – you'll find yourself making them again and again.