🥒 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).

Step 2: Arranging the Cucumbers

  1. Tightly Pack the Gherkins: Begin to arrange the gherkins in the jar. The tighter they are packed, the better they will pickle.
  2. Add Salt and Sugar: After arranging the cucumbers, add:
    • 1 tablespoon of salt
    • 1 tablespoon of sugar
    • 3 tablespoons of vinegar

These ingredients are crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Step 3: Additives and Water

  1. Add Onions and Parsley: Place the onion slices and a sprig of parsley on top of the gherkins. The onions add a lovely flavor, and parsley can enhance the overall taste.
  2. Fill with Water: Finally, fill the jar with water to the edge, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged. The water helps create the brine that will preserve the gherkins.