Parsley Gurken'S

Prep: 15 min Cook: 4 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Eastern European

Bright, tangy pickles with fresh parsley and vibrant spices, perfect as a refreshing snack or condiment, suited for those who enjoy homemade, flavorful preserved vegetables.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. small cucumbers
  • 1 Tbsp. salt
  • 3/4 c. sugar
  • 3/4 c. white vinegar
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 1 tsp. pickling spice
  • 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
  • 2 strips lemon peel
  • 20 parsley sprigs

Instructions

  1. Slice cucumbers 1/4-inch thick.
  2. Put sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt.
  3. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 8 hours.
  4. Combine sugar, vinegar, water, pickling spice, turmeric, and lemon peel in a saucepan.
  5. Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
  7. Drain cucumbers.
  8. Return cucumbers to the bowl.
  9. Stir in parsley sprigs.
  10. Pour hot liquid mixture over cucumbers.
  11. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 days, stirring once daily.
  12. Store in covered glass containers for up to 2 months.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, use fresh cucumbers and allow them to sit in the salt for the full 8 hours. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly. You can also add a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute the lemon peel with orange peel for a different citrus note. Ensure your glass containers are sterilized for longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

These parsley cucumbers are a great accompaniment to grilled meats or sandwiches. They also pair beautifully with Lena'S Apple Cake as a contrasting side. Serve them as a part of a picnic spread or alongside a charcuterie board. For a delightful twist, try them in salads or as a garnish in cocktails.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickles in the refrigerator in tightly sealed glass containers. They can last up to 2 months. For best flavor, consume them within the first month. There's no need to reheat these pickles; they are best enjoyed cold as a refreshing side dish or snack.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Parsley Gurken'S contains roughly 240 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1770mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).

240 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 57.6g 21% DV
Fiber 11.4g 41% DV
Sugar 0.8g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1770.4mg 77% DV
Potassium 742.5mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2mcg
Vitamin C 85.6mg 95% DV
Calcium 75.8mg 6% DV
Iron 3.9mg 22% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 larger cucumbers for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger cucumbers, but it's best to slice them thinner, around 1/8-inch thick, to maintain the texture and flavor absorption. Just be aware that larger cucumbers may have more seeds, which can affect the final product.

How can I make these pickles spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the brine. Adding a few crushed garlic cloves can also enhance the flavor and provide a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

What can I do if I don't have pickling spice?

If you don't have pickling spice, you can make a substitute by combining equal parts of mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns. Add a few dried bay leaves and crushed red pepper flakes for additional flavor. This mix will work well in the brine.

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).

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