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Crispy pickled cucumbers for winter in liter jars
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under running water, using a soft sponge to remove dirt from the bumps. Soak them in cold water for 2–4 hours – this restores lost moisture and ensures a crunchy texture. Trim 3–5 mm off both ends – this is where bitterness and nitrates accumulate. Sort the cucumbers by size: fruits of the same size will pickle evenly.
Be sure to sterilize the jars for 10–15 minutes.
In the prepared jars, place on the bottom (calculated for a liter jar): a dill umbrella, a bay leaf, 2–3 black currant and cherry leaves, 1–2 garlic cloves, 2–3 allspice peas, 6–8 mustard seeds. Tightly pack the cucumbers into the jar.
Pour boiling water into the jars. Cover with lids, but do not screw them on yet. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.
Drain the water and count how many liters you have.
Bring the brine to a boil over high heat. Add the ingredients, calculated per 1 liter of brine: 1 tablespoon of salt, half a cup of sugar. As soon as the water boils, pour in 250 ml of 9% table vinegar – it is important to add the vinegar after boiling, to preserve its preserving properties. Boil the marinade for 2–3 minutes.
Immediately pour the boiling marinade into the jars with cucumbers, right to the top – no air bubbles should remain. Cover with lids and place the jars in a pot of hot water for sterilization. The water should reach the «shoulders» of the jars. Sterilize for 15 minutes from the moment the water boils – this guarantees long storage without bulging lids.
Carefully lift the jars out of the boiling water with special tongs. Immediately screw the lids on tightly with screw-top lids or a sealing machine. Turn the jars upside down – if no marinade leaks out, the seal is airtight. Wrap them in a warm blanket and leave to cool for 12–24 hours – slow cooling completes the sterilization process.These spicy cucumbers will be a favourite delicacy on your table. Make crispy pickled cucumbers for winter with pleasure. Enjoy your meal.
Tips
- 1
Add an oak or horseradish leaf to the bottom of the jar – the tannins will give the cucumbers extra crunch.
- 2
For spicy cucumbers, add a ring of chilli pepper to each jar.
- 3
Use only freshly picked cucumbers – those that have sat for more than 24 hours lose their crunch.
FAQ
Why do the cucumbers turn out soft? +
There are several reasons: overripe cucumbers, sterilizing for too long, too little vinegar, or the absence of tannin-rich leaves (oak, cherry, currant).
How long do pickled cucumbers keep? +
With proper sealing and storage in a cool dark place – up to 2 years. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks.
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