Magical Whiskey-Pickled Cucumbers Recipe

Hello, friends! Today, I’m excited to share a unique recipe for cucumbers pickled in whiskey, inspired by my good friend, Alexey Kanevsky. These aren’t just any cucumbers; they’re magical and sure to impress at any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cucumbers: 1 kg (preferably farm-fresh)
Garlic: 3 heads (use young garlic if possible)
Hot Pepper: 2 pcs
Parsley: 2 bunches
Mint: 2 bunches
Salt (coarse): 2 tbsp
Vinegar (4%): 200 ml
Sugar: A generous amount (as per taste)
Water: Sufficient to submerge cucumbers in brine
Steps to Create These Magical Cucumbers:
Prepare the Cucumbers:

Rinse the cucumbers under running water.
Place them in a bowl and set aside.
Prepare the Ingredients:

Peel and crush the garlic.
Chop the hot pepper, parsley, and mint.

Create the Brine:

In a pot, combine the salt, vinegar, sugar, and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.

Infuse the Cucumbers:

Add the cucumbers, garlic, hot pepper, parsley, and mint to the pot.
Let the cucumbers soak in the brine for about 2 hours.
Sterilize the Jars:

Sterilize clean, dry glass jars in the oven at 100°C for 30 minutes.
Ensure the lids are also clean and new to avoid contamination.
Fill the Jars:

Carefully place the cucumbers and brine into the sterilized jars.
Make sure to distribute the garlic, hot pepper, parsley, and mint evenly among the jars.
Seal the jars tightly with lids.
Store the Jars:

Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or cellar.
These cucumbers can be stored for up to a year if the storage conditions are correct.
Enjoying Your Whiskey-Pickled Cucumbers:
After about 3-4 days, these cucumbers are ready to be enjoyed. The whiskey imparts a unique flavor that makes them a perfect snack or addition to any meal. They are especially delicious with barbecues or as a side dish.

A Few Tips:
Handle with Care: When heating the brine, be cautious of the vinegar fumes. Use a strainer to avoid adding any solid spices to the jars.
Perfect for Sharing: These cucumbers make great gifts. Share a jar with friends and family; they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time!
Final Thoughts:
These pickled cucumbers are a delightful twist on a traditional recipe. They combine the fresh taste of farm cucumbers with the rich flavor , creating a snack that is both unique and irresistible.
happy pickling!