🥒 Salt in Pickles Amount: Typically 2–5% salt brine (by weight of water). Example: For 1 liter (1000 ml) of water, add 20–50 g of salt (about 1–3 tablespoons). Why: Salt draws water out of the cucumbers (osmosis), keeping them firm. It prevents bad bacteria growth, allowing beneficial lactic acid bacteria to thrive (if you’re fermenting).

Required Products for Pickling Gherkins

To make your own pickles, gather the following ingredients (for one jar):

  • Gherkins: As many as fit in the jar (small cucumbers work best)
  • Onion: Three thin slices
  • Black Pepper: 5 grains
  • Horseradish: 1 small piece (adds a unique flavor)
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt: 1 tablespoon
  • Vinegar: 3 tablespoons (adjust for tartness)
  • Parsley: Optional for added flavor
  • Water: Until the jar is full

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Jar

  1. Clean the Jar: Start with a clean, sterilized jar. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water or placing them in the oven.
  2. Layer the Spices: At the bottom of the jar, place:
    • 5 black peppercorns
    • 1 piece of horseradish

This initial layer of spices will infuse the pickles with flavor right from the start.