Welcome back to my kitchen, where the pickling adventures never stop!
Today, we’re taking a classic favorite – cucumbers – and giving them a delightful twist with apple cider vinegar. It’s a fusion that’s as exciting as it sounds, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
These pickles aren’t just your regular fare. The apple cider vinegar brings a unique, fruity tang that complements the crispness of cucumbers perfectly.
It’s a match made in pickling heaven, offering a refreshing change from the usual.
Pickled Cucumbers In Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large Cucumber
- 7 ounces Apple cider vinegar
- 5 ounces Water
- 1 tablespoon Sea salt or kosher salt- Check the label to ensure your sea salt or kosher salt is pure, without anti-caking agents or iodine, as they can impact the flavor and look of your vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar- For a low-carb or keto option try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- Optional- 2 garlic cloves cut lengthwise
Instructions
- Thinly slice the cucumbers into any shape desired
- Place the cucumber slices in a sterilized jar.
- Mix water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Heat until it starts to simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pour the ACV brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they're fully submerged.
- Allow the jar to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. Then seal the jar and refrigerate it. For the best flavor, let the cucumber pickle for at least 24 hours. Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
Tasty Ways to Enjoy Pickled Cucumbers in Apple Cider Vinegar
These tangy, crisp pickled cucumbers are more than just a side dish; they’re a versatile addition to a wide array of meals. Let me share some of my favorite ways to eat them:
- Revitalize Your Salads: Slice them up for a refreshing twist in green, potato, or pasta salads. Their tangy crunch adds a lively dimension to any salad mix.
- Upgrade Sandwiches and Wraps: Layer these pickles in sandwiches or wraps for an extra tangy crunch. They complement everything from classic deli meats to vegetarian fillings.
- Enhance Cheese Boards: Their fruity tanginess makes them a great addition to cheese platters, providing a refreshing contrast to rich cheeses and meats.
- Instant Snack Gratification: Enjoy these pickles straight from the jar for a quick, satisfying, and tangy treat.
- Perfect BBQ Side: Serve them alongside grilled dishes at your next barbecue. Their crispness and acidity cut through the smokiness and richness of grilled meats.
- Cocktail Hour Stars: Add a slice to your cocktails for a unique twist. They work especially well in Bloody Marys or alongside light, crisp beers.
- Breakfast Companion: Brighten up your morning by adding them to your breakfast plate. They pair wonderfully with scrambled eggs, omelets, or avocado toast.
- Tacos and Nachos: Chop them up for a zesty addition to tacos or nachos, offering a delightful spicy-tangy flavor.
- Pasta Salad Zing: Incorporate them into your favorite pasta salads for a delightful flavor boost, perfect for picnics or potlucks.
- Stir-Fry Surprise: Add them towards the end of cooking a stir-fry for a delightful tangy crunch.
- Gourmet Toppings for Canapés: Use them as toppings on canapés or bruschetta, pairing them with cream cheese, herbs, or smoked salmon for elegant appetizers.
In Need of Bold Flavors? Discover the bold, game-changing combo of pickled cucumbers and radishes. Your taste buds will thank you!
Crafting the Perfect Flavor Profile With Spices
Selecting the right combination of spices is key to elevating your pickled cucumbers, especially when using the unique taste of apple cider vinegar.
Here’s a rundown of my favorite spice selections and how they contribute to the overall flavor:
- Dill: This classic pickling herb imparts a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that is a natural match for cucumbers, creating that quintessential pickle taste.
- Garlic Cloves: I always add a few cloves for their unmistakable savory depth. They infuse the brine with a robust aroma that complements the tartness of the vinegar.
- Mustard Seeds: These little seeds add a subtle, peppery zing. They’re great for introducing a complex flavor without overshadowing the other ingredients.
- Black Peppercorns: A staple in my pickling arsenal, they lend a spicy warmth that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the cucumbers.
- Coriander Seeds: Their slight citrusy, floral notes add an interesting layer and work wonderfully with the fruity undertones of apple cider vinegar.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a gentle heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a warm dimension to the pickles.
- Bay Leaves: These provide a subtle herbal background, adding a layer of complexity and complementing the natural flavors of the cucumbers.
- Sugar and Salt Balance: Fine-tuning the sugar and salt in the brine can shift the flavor from a sweeter profile to a more savory one, depending on your preference.
- Cumin Seeds: If you’re feeling adventurous, cumin seeds can add an earthy, smoky twist, creating a unique flavor profile in combination with apple cider vinegar.
- Fennel Seeds: For a hint of sweetness and a slightly licorice-like taste, fennel seeds can be a delightful addition.
- Allspice Berries: These can be used for a touch of warm, sweet, and spicy flavor, adding a bit of complexity to your pickles.
Each of these spices contributes a distinctive flavor to your pickled cucumbers, giving you the freedom to tailor them to your palate.
Experimenting with various spice and vinegar combinations not only enriches the flavor but also turns pickling into a creative adventure.
Come Hang Out With Us!
I’m so excited for you to try these Pickled Cucumbers in Apple Cider Vinegar and hear about your experiences. This recipe is a great way to add some pizazz to your meals and snacks.
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Together, let’s keep exploring the vast and tasty world of pickling!
