How to avoid common pitfalls in homemade pickling

Fermented foods are a favorite delicacy of numerous people, and in many families, the recipe for pickled cucumbers is passed down from generation to generation. However, despite following a precise recipe, sometimes mistakes are made that can render the jar unusable.

Pickled cucumbers are both a delicious addition to dinner and a great snack, especially loved during family gatherings. Although you can now buy pickles in stores year-round, many homes still prepare them themselves.

This is most often done at the end of July and the beginning of August, when gardens and market stalls are full of fresh field cucumbers. While the preparation of cucumber supplies may seem simple, it is essential to follow a few rules. Otherwise, instead of pickles, you'll have spoiled cucumbers.

The first mistake that can lead to spoilage is choosing the wrong variety. There are suitable varieties for pickling. Cucumbers should have an elongated shape, thin skin, and not be too large. They are harder to fit into jars and may lose their crunchiness over time.

Another mistake is insufficient cleanliness. Cucumbers must be washed very thoroughly before pickling. Similarly, jars and lids should be cleaned and even scalded. If additional bacteria get inside, the cucumbers can get moldy.

A serious mistake that affects pickling is incorrect temperature and putting cucumbers in the basement too quickly. The first 24 hours after placing cucumbers in jars should be kept at room temperature, approximately 72°F. Only later should they be placed in a colder location.

A common cause of clouding and excessive gas production, leading to the spoilage of an entire batch of cucumbers, is having too many in the jar, incorrect brine proportions, or even using the wrong salt. In this case, applying the old "3 times 3" rule is good: for 7 pounds of fresh cucumbers, add 3 quarts of water and 3 tablespoons of coarse, non-iodized rock salt. It's also worth remembering not to overdo it with spices, as too much horseradish, garlic, or dill can simply ruin the taste of the pickles.