Pickled Cucumbers and Carrots for Winter Storage

Pickled cucumbers and carrots offer a delightful blend of crunchy, refreshing cucumbers paired with sweet, earthy carrots. This preserved salad harnesses a medley of flavors, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the tangy zest of vinegar. The addition of garlic and spices like black pepper and mustard seeds brings a warmth that deepens the taste profile of this dish. The oil in the marinade adds a smooth texture, while sugar balances the vinegar's acidity. Perfect for winter storage, this relish can accompany many main courses, providing a burst of taste and color. Easy to prepare and well-suited for canning, these pickles maintain their crispness thanks to the careful preparation process. Ideal for those looking to preserve the seasonal abundance of cucumbers and carrots, this recipe can be enjoyed throughout the colder months. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a quick snack, it’s a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. For those interested in home canning, this recipe presents an enjoyable way to begin the journey into food preservation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 kg cucumbers
1 kg carrots

Marinade Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup vinegar (9%)
1 cup oil
100 g salt
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp ground black pepper
2 tsp mustard seeds (optional)

Preparation Time

260 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Carrots: Grate the carrots using a coarse grater to ensure they maintain a hearty texture.
Prepare the Cucumbers: Trim the ends of each cucumber, then slice them lengthwise into four equal parts and further cut each piece in half, yielding eight pieces per cucumber.
Mix the Vegetables: Combine the grated carrots and sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
Create the Marinade: Add the sugar, salt, vinegar, and oil to the vegetables. Mixing with your hands ensures even coating and distribution.
Add Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground black pepper, and, if desired, mustard seeds for an extra layer of heat and flavor.
Marinate: Let the mixture sit for about four hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to absorb the marinade.
Tasting: After four hours, the salad is ready to be served fresh.
Canning (if desired): For longer preservation, pack the salad tightly into sterilized jars.
Sealing the Jars: Place lids on the jars and prepare for sterilization.
Sterilization Process: Set the jars in a pot with lukewarm water. When the water begins to boil, continue to heat for 10 minutes.
Finalize Canning: Seal the jars and wrap them in a warm towel for an hour to ensure a proper seal forms.
Store the Pickles: Once completely cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place to maximize their shelf life.
Monitor Closures: Ensure that all jars have properly sealed by checking if the lids are concave.
Try Different Spice Combinations: You can experiment by adding other spices such as dill or coriander seeds for variation.
Incorporate into Meals: Use the pickled salad to enhance everyday dishes or add a unique touch to holiday feasts.
Enjoy Seasonally: This preserve is perfect for enjoying when cucumbers and carrots are out of season.
Share with Friends: Consider gifting a jar as a homemade treat during festive occasions.
Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the sugar and vinegar proportions based on your taste preferences.

Tips

Uniform Size: Ensure cucumber slices are of a similar size for even marinating.
Vinegar Choice: Opt for apple cider vinegar for a fruitier edge.
Crunch Factor: Keep cucumbers in a salt brine for a few hours pre-marinating for added crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 50 kcal per 100g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fats: 2g
Protein: 1g

Variations

Low-Sugar Version: Substitute sugar with a sugar alternative for a diabetic-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with: Grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Garnish: Fresh chives or parsley can be added for extra freshness.
Snack Option: Serve with crusty bread and cheese for a quick appetizer.

Best Places

Picklehouse - A cozy spot renowned for its artisanal pickles. Location: 76 Columbia Road, London, UK.
Sweet and Sour Deli - Known for its variety of marinades. Location: 123 Market St, Philadelphia, USA.
Cucina Italiana - Offers gourmet pickled assortments. Location: 56 Via Piave, Milan, Italy.
Le Petit Conservateur - A quaint cafe in the heart of Paris. Location: 34 Rue des Rosiers, Paris, France.
The Pickling Corner - Specializes in unique pickled combinations. Location: 89 Queen Street, Sydney, Australia.
Sauerland Konservatorium - Combines local ingredients with traditional techniques. Location: 11 Mühlenweg, Berlin, Germany.
La Milesima - Provides a range of Mediterranean pickles. Location: 21 Calle de Serrano, Madrid, Spain.
Garden Flavors - Small cafe known for pickled delicacies. Location: 31 Arbat Street, Moscow, Russia.
Bountiful Bites - Offers a variety of preserved products. Location: 214 Yonge Street, Toronto, Canada.
Teriyaki Katana - Japanese eatery with pickled vegetables on the menu. Location: 123 Kanda Street, Tokyo, Japan.