Get ready to transform ordinary cucumbers into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests! These Armenian-style pickles are not just a side dish – they're a crisp, zesty journey into traditional pickling magic that takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you're a pickle enthusiast or a curious foodie looking to expand your flavor horizons, this recipe promises to deliver a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Armenian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups of Armenian cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup of gherkins, whole
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 2 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon of dill seeds
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the Armenian cucumbers under cold water and slice them into thin rounds. If using larger cucumbers, you may want to cut them into half-moons or quarters for easier pickling.
- Take the gherkins and rinse them as well. If they are particularly large, you can slice them in half lengthwise, but whole gherkins are traditional.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. This will create your pickling brine.
- Once the brine is ready, add the smashed garlic cloves and dill seeds to the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the garlic and dill seeds evenly throughout the brine.
- In a clean glass jar or container, begin layering the sliced Armenian cucumbers and whole gherkins. You can alternate layers or mix them together based on your preference.
- After layering the cucumbers and gherkins, pour the prepared pickling brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, you can press down gently on the vegetables to remove any air bubbles.
- Seal the jar or container tightly with a lid. Allow the pickles to marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. For best flavor, refrigerate the pickles for a few hours or overnight before serving.
- Once the pickles have marinated, they are ready to enjoy! Serve them as a refreshing side dish, a crunchy topping for sandwiches, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Produce: Select firm, fresh Armenian cucumbers and gherkins for the best crunch and flavor. Avoid overripe or soft vegetables.
- Sterilize Your Jar: Always use a clean, sterilized glass jar to prevent any bacterial growth and ensure your pickles stay fresh longer.
- Experiment with Spices: While this recipe uses dill seeds, feel free to add additional spices like mustard seeds, peppercorns, or red pepper flakes for a personalized touch.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Although the pickles are ready after 15 minutes, letting them marinate in the refrigerator overnight will intensify their tangy flavor.
- Storage Tip: These pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, allowing you to enjoy their crisp texture and zesty taste throughout the week.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond being a standalone side dish, these pickles are perfect for adding crunch to sandwiches, salads, or as a vibrant addition to charcuterie boards.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
