Are you ready to add a tangy twist to your meals? Look no further than the humble pickled cucumber! These crunchy, flavorful delights can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a fan of classic dill flavors or bold and spicy options, there’s a pickled cucumber recipe out there for you.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different tangy pickled cucumber recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From sweet and sour bread and butter pickles to spicy Korean-inspired oi muchim, each recipe offers its own unique take on the classic pickling process. So grab a jar of cucumbers, don your apron, and get ready to dive into a world of tangy delights!
Classic Dill Pickled Cucumbers
A simple yet flavorful condiment that adds a tangy twist to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp pickling spice (containing dill, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and others)
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, white vinegar, water, sugar, pickling spice, and salt.
2. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
3. After 24 hours, transfer the mixture to the refrigerator to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Garlic Pickled Cucumbers
A tangy and flavorful twist on traditional pickles, these Spicy Garlic Pickled Cucumbers are perfect for adding a zesty kick to sandwiches, salads, or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, garlic, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to coat the cucumbers evenly.
3. Pack the cucumber mixture into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the vinegar and water mixture over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (or more to allow flavors to meld)
Sweet and Sour Bread and Butter Pickles
This recipe adds a twist to traditional pickling by incorporating the sweetness of bread and butter into the mix, creating a tangy and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, water, and salt until dissolved.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight.
3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
4. Strain the pickle mixture into a colander set over a bowl, reserving the liquid.
5. Add the melted butter to the reserved liquid and whisk until combined.
6. Pour the sweetened pickling liquid over the cucumber slices and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Enjoy your tangy and sweet bread and butter pickles!
Korean Spicy Pickled Cucumbers (Oi Muchim)
Add a tangy and spicy kick to your meals with this classic Korean side dish, Oi Muchim. A simple yet flavorful condiment that pairs well with many Korean dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Kirby cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and Korean chili flakes. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to absorb the spicy flavor.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumber-chili flake mixture. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Japanese Quick Pickled Cucumbers (Sunomono)
This Japanese-style pickling recipe is a simple and refreshing way to enjoy cucumbers year-round. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious condiment perfect for topping sushi, grilled meats, or using as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Japanese cucumbers (or English cucumbers), sliced into thin rounds
– 1 cup rice vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Rinse the cucumber slices under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, water, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
6. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus cooling time)
Indian Spicy Pickled Cucumbers (Kheera Ka Achar)
This classic Indian recipe adds a tangy twist to the humble cucumber, perfect for accompanying snacks or as a condiment. With a perfect balance of spices and vinegar, this pickle is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers (1-2 inches thick)
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2-3 dried red chilies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the vinegar, water, oil, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
3. Add the cucumber slices to the marinade and let it sit for at least 24 hours, refrigerated.
4. After 24 hours, give the mixture a good stir and add the dried red chilies (if using).
5. Continue to refrigerate the pickle for another 2-3 days before serving.
Cooking Time: 24+ hours
Refrigerator Pickled Cucumbers with Mustard Seeds
A tangy and crunchy condiment perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a side dish. These refrigerator pickles are easy to make and require minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 small cucumbers (such as Kirby or Persian)
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, and black peppercorns. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers to the pickling liquid and let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
4. Once the pickles have reached your desired level of tanginess, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – overnight
Pickled Cucumbers with Red Onion and Dill
This refreshing side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite summer meals, from BBQs to picnics. Thinly sliced cucumbers are pickled in a flavorful brine infused with red onion, fresh dill, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 tsp mustard seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and mustard seeds (if using).
3. Pour the brine over the cucumber mixture; stir to coat.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh dill on top.
Cooking Time: 2 hours minimum
Honey Mustard Pickled Cucumbers
Add a tangy twist to your snacking routine with these Honey Mustard Pickled Cucumbers! With just the right balance of sweet and sour, these pickles are perfect for topping sandwiches or serving as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons mustard (such as Dijon)
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, honey, and mustard. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top.
4. Add pickling spice (if using) and seal the jar.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickled Cucumber and Radish Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of radishes with the tanginess of pickled cucumbers, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cucumber and radish slices.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumber and radish mixture. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes (including pickling time)
Vietnamese Pickled Cucumbers (Dưa Chuột Muối)
Summary: This classic Vietnamese recipe is a refreshing and tangy condiment made with cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside grilled meats, seafood, and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 small to medium-sized cucumbers
– 1 cup (250ml) vinegar (white wine or rice vinegar)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the pickling liquid.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Pickled Cucumbers with Turmeric and Ginger
Add a burst of flavor and color to your meals with these tangy and aromatic pickled cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pickling cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, turmeric powder, and grated ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the sliced cucumbers into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Pickled Cucumbers
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pickling, these Balsamic Pickled Cucumbers are perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess moisture.
2. Rinse the cucumber slices with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, water, sugar, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the pickling liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling and refrigeration time)
Pickled Cucumber Relish
A tangy and refreshing condiment perfect for topping sandwiches, burgers, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 thinly sliced cucumbers (about 1 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon pickling spice (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Rinse the cucumber slices under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, combine vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and pickling spice (if using).
4. Add the cucumber slices to the liquid mixture, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
– Refrigeration time: at least 24 hours
Pickled Cucumber Slices with Chili Flakes
A refreshing twist on traditional pickles, this recipe adds a spicy kick to cucumber slices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumber slices
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
2. Add cucumber slices to the brine and let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, sprinkle chili flakes over the cucumber slices.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Soaking time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Pickled Cucumbers
Lemon Herb Pickled Cucumbers Recipe
Brighten up your meals with a tangy and refreshing twist on traditional pickles! This recipe combines the zesty flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs to create a deliciously crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and rinse with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, dill, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating and serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickled Cucumber Spears with Garlic and Peppercorns
Pickled Cucumber Spears with Garlic and Peppercorns Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional pickles, these crunchy spears are infused with the pungency of garlic and a hint of peppery spice.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumber spears
– 1/2 cup (125ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon (15g) peppercorns, crushed
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumber spears into 1-inch (2.5cm) lengths.
2. In a bowl, combine vinegar, water, garlic, and peppercorns. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers to the pickling liquid, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours for desired level of sourness.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (refrigeration time)
Asian-Inspired Sesame Pickled Cucumbers
Elevate your snack game with this addictive and flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of cucumbers with the nutty goodness of sesame. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or enjoying as a crunchy appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fresh cucumbers
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the cucumber slices to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Get ready to crunch on some tangy treats! This article presents 18 mouthwatering pickled cucumber recipes from around the world. From classic dill and spicy garlic flavors to sweet and sour bread and butter pickles, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover Korean-style spicy pickles, Japanese quick pickles, Indian spicy pickles, and many more international twists on this crunchy snack. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a zesty condiment, these recipes are sure to satisfy your craving for tangy delights.