Cucumbers In Turmeric
Crisp, refreshing cucumber pickles infused with turmeric, garlic, and ginger, perfect as a side for lamb dishes and curries, offering vibrant flavors and a cool crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the cucumbers.
- Cut the cucumbers into quarters lengthwise.
- Scrape away the seeds and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the cucumbers with 2 tablespoons of pickling salt.
- Refrigerate for an hour.
- Wash the cucumbers in fresh water three times and drain well.
- Press in a clean dish towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Saute the onion, garlic, and ginger root in peanut oil until the onion is soft.
- Add the turmeric, remaining tablespoon of salt, and sugar.
- Stir well.
- Add the vinegar and water.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture over the cucumbers in a glass or crockery bowl.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Stir a few times.
- Serve and enjoy with lamb dishes and curries.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the sautéed onion, garlic, and ginger mixture. If you don't have peanut oil, canola or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. When preparing the cucumbers, ensure they are cut evenly for consistent pickling. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the sugar slightly, but balance it with extra vinegar to maintain acidity.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumbers are best served chilled as a refreshing side dish to accompany lamb dishes and curries. They also pair wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes, adding a zesty crunch. Consider serving them alongside Gazpacho(Makes 6 Servings) for a delightful summer meal or as part of a mezze platter with dips like Potato Hummus or Garlic Ripe Olives.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will intensify as they sit, making them even more delicious over time. If you want to enjoy them warm, briefly microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, but be careful not to overheat, as it may compromise the crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumbers In Turmeric contains roughly 168 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while slicing-type cucumbers are recommended for their texture, you can also use English cucumbers or even pickling cucumbers. Just adjust the salt and pickling time accordingly to ensure they still taste great.
How long do these cucumbers need to marinate?
For optimal flavor, it's best to let the cucumbers marinate for at least one hour after pouring the turmeric mixture over them. However, for the best taste, consider refrigerating them overnight before serving.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
The recipe is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Enjoy these cucumbers as a vibrant addition to any vegan meal or side dish, enhancing your table with color and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).