Pickled English Cucumber – A Refreshing Summer Delight

Welcome to my pickled English cucumber recipe! As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I’ve always been fascinated by the vinegar-rich flavors of pickles. And with this recipe, you too can experience the tart and crisp taste of homemade pickled cucumbers.

English cucumbers are the star ingredient in this recipe, known for their crisp texture and mild flavor. When soaked in a tangy brine made with vinegar, sugar and salt, they transform into pickled delights that are perfect as a snack or addition to sandwiches and salads.

But why settle for store-bought pickles when you can easily make your own batch at home? With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you can have delicious and fresh pickled cucumbers that will impress your friends and family.

So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create easy and tasty refrigerator pickles that will become a household favorite in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy to make recipe to add to your list of favorites? Look no further than this pickled English cucumber recipe! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this delightful dish:

Firstly, these pickled cucumbers are quick and easy to make. In just a few simple steps, you can have delicious homemade pickles without any fuss. You don’t need any special equipment or difficult techniques, making this recipe perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Secondly, the ingredients used in this recipe are simple and easily accessible. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry; sugar, salt, water, vinegar and English cucumbers. The cucumbers can easily be found at your local grocery store or farmers market.

Thirdly, these pickled cucumbers are extremely versatile. You can slice them into coins or spears as an addition to sandwiches or wraps. Or simply serve them as a side dish for your main meal. The flavors of black pepper and dill will elevate any dish.

Finally, these pickled English cucumbers are perfect for those who like to meal prep. Make a batch on the weekend and store them in the refrigerator for quick access during the week. Best part? They’ll stay crisp for weeks!

In summary, this recipe is one of the best recipes out there that’s easy to make, uses basic ingredients and can be stored for later use. It’s versatile nature makes it perfect as a main dish or side dish alike. Once you try this recipe I guarantee it will become one of your favorites!

Ingredient List

To make this quick and easy refrigerator pickled English cucumber recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 English cucumber or 2 cups of sliced cucumber: Make sure to choose the best English cucumber for a crisp texture and mild flavor. You can also substitute with slicing cucumbers.

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt: This will help to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, making them crunchy.

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar: The acidity of vinegar is essential for preserving the cucumbers and giving them a tangy flavor.

• 1 cup water: This will be mixed with the vinegar to create the pickling solution.

• ½ cup white sugar: For sweetness that balances out the tartness of the vinegar.

• 1 teaspoon black pepper: This spice adds a subtle heat and peppery flavor to the pickling liquid.

• 2 teaspoons fresh dill: Dill is classic in any pickle recipe, providing a fresh and herbaceous taste.

Note: You can also play around with other herbs and spices to suit your taste. Onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes are just a few examples of ingredients that can add more flavors to your pickles.

The Recipe How-To

Now that we have discussed the ingredients, let’s talk about how to make quick pickled English cucumbers. With this recipe, you can expect easy homemade pickles in no time!

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

First, you need to prep the cucumbers. Slice them into coins, spears or leave them whole. I prefer to slice them thinly so that they are easier to eat and absorb more of the vinegar mixture. If you have time, soak the sliced cucumbers in ice water for 30 minutes before proceeding. This step helps crisp up the cucumbers and improve their texture.

Step 2: Make the Pickling Mixture

In a pot, combine vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Add in fresh dill and onions for more flavor. I like to use a combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar to add complex flavors to the pickling mixture.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil then Cool Down

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat until sugar and salt dissolve. Then let it cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the sliced cucumbers in a jar or container.

Step 4: Refrigerate for up to Three Days

After adding the mixture, refrigerate your pickles for at least two hours before serving them. They can last in the fridge for up to three days.

Enjoy these quick pickled English cucumbers as a snack or side dish with sandwiches or salads. The vinegar mixture enhances their natural sweetness while still keeping their crunchiness. You can also experiment with different types of cucumber slices such as using English cucumber slices that are longer and ideal for use in sandwiches or thinly sliced Kirby cukes that have a nice crunch.

Now get ready to dive into your delicious homemade pickled cucumbers!

Substitutions and Variations

You may choose to switch up a few of the ingredients if you like. Instead of using plain white vinegar, you can use distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for added flavor. You could also try using rice vinegar, which is slightly sweeter than other types of vinegar.

If you can’t find English cucumbers, you can substitute regular slicing cucumbers. However, note that cucumber pickles made with regular cucumbers tend to be softer and not as crisp as ones made with English cucumbers.

For those who prefer a sweeter cucumber pickle, increase the sugar from ½ cup to 1 cup. On the other hand, if you prefer your pickles saltier, increase the amount of kosher salt to 2 tablespoons.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sliced onions or whole garlic cloves to the jar with the cucumbers before pouring in the pickling liquid. This will give your pickles a delicious bite and make them even more unique.

Finally, don’t forget about fresh herbs! Adding fresh dill or bay leaves to the pickling jar can give your pickles an extra herby kick that will surely impress your guests.

Serving and Pairing

When it comes to serving your pickled English cucumbers, they go well with a variety of dishes. They add a zesty tang to sandwiches, burgers, and wraps, while also making for a refreshing side dish.

One pairing I highly recommend is serving them alongside a classic British dish like fish and chips. The cool and crisp cucumbers complement the salty and savory flavors of the fried fish perfectly.

Another great pairing option is to serve them with barbeque meats. The acidity of the pickled cucumbers can cut through the richness of the meat, leaving your taste buds refreshed and satisfied.

For those looking for a lighter meal option, you can add these zesty slices to salads or bowls as an unexpected flavor boost. You can also mix them into a tuna salad or potato salad to add some dimension.

As for beverages, these quick pickled cucumbers pair well with light beers or white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Overall, these pickled English cucumbers are versatile enough to elevate any meal or snack. They are sure to impress your guests and keep your taste buds happy.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve made these delicious quick pickled English cucumbers, you’ll want to make sure that you store them properly so that they retain their crisp texture and tangy flavor for as long as possible.

Storage:

The easiest way to store these pickles is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to a month if stored properly. Be sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods as they can absorb the aromas of other foods in your fridge.

Make-ahead:

If you want to be super organized and prepare your pickles ahead of time, you can do so up to 24 hours before you plan on serving them. Simply follow the recipe and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Reheating:

These are quick pickled cucumbers, which means that they aren’t processed or canned, so there’s no need to reheat them. To serve, simply pull them out of the fridge, let them reach room temperature, and serve as desired.

Variations:

If you have leftovers or want to switch things up, try adding these pickled cucumbers to salads, sandwiches, or burgers for an extra pop of flavor. You could also chop them up and mix them into a potato salad or add them as a side dish to a cheeseboard.

Overall, these pickled cucumbers are easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge for future use. They’re versatile enough to pair with almost any main course or sandwich and add a refreshing tanginess when you need it most.

Tips for Perfect Results

As a chef who is passionate about British cuisine, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years for making the perfect pickled English cucumbers. Here are some tips to ensure you get crisp and delicious results every time:

1. Use the Best English Cucumbers

Choose firm, straight, and uniformly green cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. Using other types of cucumbers could result in mushy or bitter pickles.

2. Slice the Cucumbers Thinly and Uniformly

To achieve consistently crisp pickles, it’s important to slice the cucumbers thinly and uniformly. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice them into coins or spears. Make sure they’re not too thick because this could affect the texture of your pickles.

3. Soak the Cucumbers in Ice Water

Soaking your cucumbers in ice water for at least an hour before pickling will help ensure their crispness. This step removes excess moisture from the cucumbers, resulting in a crunchy texture.

4. Use Fresh Dill

Adding fresh dill to your pickled cucumbers gives them a burst of flavor and aroma. It’s best to use fresh dill instead of dried because it has a more intense flavor.

5. Experiment with Different Vinegar Types

While white vinegar is traditional for making English cucumber pickles, you can experiment with other types of vinegar such as wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or apple cider vinegar to give your pickles a different taste profile.

6. Don’t Skimp on Sugar and Salt

The sugar and salt in your pickling solution are essential ingredients that give your cucumber slices their sweet and tangy taste. It’s important to measure them accurately according to the recipe to ensure the right balance of flavors.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best English cucumber pickles. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of this recipe to find the one that suits your taste buds best.

FAQ

Now that you know everything you need to create a delicious pickled English cucumber dish, you might still have some questions about ingredients, preparation, or serving. Don’t worry! I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you along the way. Please read through for answers and tips to help make your pickling experience a success.

Are English cucumbers good for pickling?

When it comes to making pickles, it’s important to note that slicing cucumbers – including English cucumbers – may not yield as crisp of a result compared to other types of cucumbers. However, they can still be utilized for creating relish, as the texture won’t be as noticeable. To ensure the best outcome, be sure to give your cucumbers ample time to chill prior to beginning the recipe.

Are pickling cucumbers the same as English cucumbers?

When it comes to cucumbers, there are two types commonly used for different purposes: pickling cucumbers and slicing cucumbers. These two have distinct features that set them apart from each other. Pickling cucumbers have a shorter and wider appearance compared to slicing cucumbers. They have been intentionally bred to have thinner skin and black spines to make the final product more visually appealing. Although they can be consumed fresh, it is easy to distinguish them from slicing cucumbers even for the average consumer.

Which vinegar is best for pickling cucumbers?

When creating pickles, many recipes will suggest the use of distilled white vinegar. This particular vinegar is produced by way of grain fermentation and is known for its tart flavor, mild scent, and colorless appearance. Additionally, it is ideal for pickling light-hued vegetables and fruits as it won’t alter their natural coloring.

Why do you soak cucumbers in ice water before pickling?

Achieving a firm and crunchy texture for your pickles is a key aspect of successful pickling. Adding any firming agents may not be necessary if you use this simple trick. Before pickling, immerse your cucumbers in ice water for 4-5 hours. Not only is this an easy and hassle-free process, but it also produces delectable and crisp pickles. This method is a safer alternative for ensuring that your pickles remain crispy.

Bottom Line

Now that you have learned all about this delicious pickled English cucumber recipe, I want to encourage you to try it out for yourself. Trust me, the combination of the tangy vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper in this dish is simply irresistible. Plus, the easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips included in this article will make the recipe a breeze to prepare.

Not only is this recipe easy and flavorful, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can serve these pickled cucumbers as a snack or a side dish or use them to add some zesty flavor to sandwiches and burgers. And because they are quick pickled, you won’t have to wait too long to enjoy them.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a simple and delicious recipe that showcases the best of British cuisine, look no further than these pickled English cucumbers. With their bold flavor, quick preparation time, and versatility, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why not give them a try today?

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