Sweet Pickled Gherkins from www.grandpascheesebarn.com
Introduction
Pickled gherkins are a popular snack that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. They are easy to make and can be stored for a long time. The best thing about pickled gherkins is that they can be customized as per your taste. You can make them spicy or sweet, depending on your preference. In this article, we will share a simple recipe for pickled gherkins that you can try at home.
Ingredients
To make pickled gherkins, you will need the following ingredients: - 500g gherkins - 1 cup white vinegar - 1 cup water - 1 tbsp salt - 1 tbsp sugar - 1 clove garlic - 1 tsp mustard seeds - 1 tsp black peppercorns - 1 bay leaf
Gherkins
Gherkins are a type of cucumber that are typically pickled. They are smaller than cucumbers and have a bumpy texture. Gherkins are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy snack option.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is commonly used in pickling as it has a high acidity level that helps to preserve the food. It is also used in household cleaning due to its antibacterial properties.
Garlic
Garlic is known for its strong flavor and health benefits. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. Garlic has also been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Mustard Seeds
Mustard seeds are commonly used in pickling as they add a tangy flavor to the food. They are also a good source of selenium, which is an important mineral for immune function.
Black Peppercorns
Black peppercorns are commonly used in pickling as they add a spicy flavor to the food. They are also a good source of antioxidants.
Instructions
To make pickled gherkins, follow these steps: 1. Wash the gherkins thoroughly and slice them into rounds. 2. In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. 3. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes. 4. Add the sliced gherkins to the saucepan and stir to coat them with the pickling liquid. 5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. 6. Transfer the pickled gherkins to a jar and store them in the refrigerator.
Slicing the Gherkins
It is important to slice the gherkins evenly so that they pickle evenly. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to slice the gherkins.
Boiling the Pickling Liquid
Boiling the pickling liquid helps to dissolve the salt and sugar and infuse the flavors of the garlic, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and bay leaf.
Cooling the Pickling Mixture
It is important to let the pickling mixture cool to room temperature before adding the gherkins. This helps to prevent the gherkins from becoming mushy.
Storing the Pickled Gherkins
Pickled gherkins can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. It is important to store them in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Nutrition
Pickled gherkins are a low-calorie snack that is high in fiber. They are also a good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting. However, pickled gherkins are high in sodium due to the pickling process. Therefore, it is important to consume them in moderation.
Calories
One cup of pickled gherkins contains approximately 17 calories.
Fiber
One cup of pickled gherkins contains approximately 2 grams of fiber.
Vitamin K
One cup of pickled gherkins contains approximately 24% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K.
Sodium
One cup of pickled gherkins contains approximately 1200 milligrams of sodium.
Conclusion
Pickled gherkins are a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed by all. This simple recipe can be customized to your taste preferences and stored for a long time. Try making pickled gherkins at home and impress your friends and family with your pickling skills!
