When summer is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to prepare pickled cucumbers for winter — without sterilization. This method is ideal for those who value their time and prefer to skip the long sterilization process. The recipe is super simple, and the result — incredibly crispy pickled cucumbers that make a great appetizer or side dish for meat meals.
Why choose this recipe?
- No sterilization required
- Minimal ingredients
- Quick to prepare
- Perfect crunch and rich flavor
This cucumber recipe is great even for beginners — nothing complicated, just natural ingredients and a reliable process.
🥒 Ingredients per 1-liter jar:
- Cucumbers — enough to fill the jar (usually 500–600 g)
- Garlic — 2–3 cloves
- Dill (head or a few sprigs) — 1 piece
- Bay leaf — 1 leaf
- Black peppercorns — 4–5 pcs
- Allspice (pimento) — 2–3 pcs
For the marinade (per 1 liter of water):
- Water — 1 L
- Salt — 1 tbsp (slightly heaping)
- Sugar — 2 tbsp
- Vinegar 9% — 100 ml
This amount of marinade is enough for 2–3 one-liter jars, depending on how tightly the cucumbers are packed.
✅ Step-by-step instructions:
- Prepare the cucumbers:
Wash thoroughly and soak in cold water for 2–3 hours — this helps preserve their crunch. - Prepare the jars:
Wash jars and lids with baking soda, rinse with boiling water. Place garlic, dill, pepper, and bay leaf on the bottom of each jar. - Pack the cucumbers:
Tightly arrange cucumbers in the jar — vertically or however they fit best, leaving minimal space. - First hot water fill:
Pour boiling water over the cucumbers, cover with lids, and let sit for 15–20 minutes. Then pour the water out. - Make the marinade:
In a pot, bring water to a boil, add salt and sugar. Once boiling, add vinegar. - Final filling and sealing:
Pour hot marinade into jars all the way to the top, seal immediately. Flip jars upside down, wrap in a blanket, and let cool completely.
💡 Tips for success:
- Use small, firm cucumbers with thin skin.
- Add blackcurrant, cherry, or horseradish leaves for extra aroma.
- Want a spicy touch? Add a piece of hot pepper.
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