Pickled Gherkins in Vinegar: Nutrients, Benefits and Preparation

We are going to show you a simple recipe to prepare pickled gherkins, as well as tell you about the benefits of including them in your diet on a regular basis.

Written and verified by the nutritionist Saúl Sánchez Arias.

Last update: 21 June, 2022

Pickled gherkins are a perfect pickle to consume at any time of the day. They’re quite filling and have a good amount of essential nutrients and quality antioxidants inside.

Read on to discover the step-by-step recipe we have for you. Prepare them and enjoy a delicious dish.

Pickles in vinegar recipe

Pickles are recommended in the context of many diets, even if you intend to lose weight. They may even be good for athletes, reducing the risk of muscle cramps.

Before we begin, it should be noted that canned foods aren’t always considered low-quality processed foods. Those made at home can provide useful nutrients, so they can be consumed frequently to take advantage of the benefits of vegetables. They’re a convenient way to include these products in the diet. In addition, they have a fairly long shelf life.

Ingredients

First of all, we’ll show you how to prepare pickled gherkins. For this, you will need the following products:

• White wine vinegar
• Mustard seeds
• Garlic
• Black pepper
• Oregano
• Pickles

Step-by-step instructions

1. First of all, you have to choose the gherkins. In this case, it’s recommended to choose small-sized ones, as they’ll soon get all the flavor and it’ll be easier to handle them.
2. After that, you need to wash them thoroughly, adding a little salt.
3. Let them dry for 24 hours afterwards.
4. To continue, you must take a sterile glass jar and put the gherkins in it.
5. Add the mustard seeds, pepper, garlic, and oregano. It’s also possible to include any other spice you wish in the recipe.
6. Once you’ve done this, cover the jar with white wine vinegar previously boiled in a pot.
7. Let the contents of the jar stand for at least 20 days.
8. To speed up the process, prick the gherkins with a fork. Thus, the liquid will soon penetrate inside the vegetable, causing them to be ready in less time.
9. As for their conservation, they keep for 12 months without problems in a cool, dry place.

Nutritional value of pickled gherkins

From the point of view of nutritional value, it should be noted that pickled gherkins are low in calories. They barely provide 25 calories per 100 grams (4 oz) of product. These come mainly from sugars, with a concentration of 1 gram per 100.

As far as micronutrients are concerned, salt stands above the rest with a content of 960 mg. Also, they’re able to provide vitamin C in sufficient quantities.

However, pickles, like many other vegetables, have phytochemicals with antioxidant capacity. These elements neutralize the formation of free radicals and keep inflammation in the body under control. This effect prevents the development of certain health problems such as type 2 diabetes. The metabolism benefits from regular consumption.

Benefits of pickled gherkins

First of all, it’s worth mentioning that pickled gherkins provide a significant amount of vitamin C. This element has been shown to help improve the body’s health. This element has been shown to help improve the efficiency of the immune system.

On the other hand, they’re a source of fiber. This substance increases the volume of the fecal bolus, thus causing a greater stimulation of the mechanoreceptors of the tube. According to a study published in the journal BMJ, an adequate intake of fiber helps to reduce constipation and avoid intestinal problems. At least a daily intake of 25 grams (1 oz) is recommended.

They can also provide a certain amount of probiotic bacteria. These increase the density and diversity of the microbiota in the tube. In this way, the incidence of many inflammatory pathologies is reduced and correct digestion and absorption of nutrients is ensured. There’s evidence that maintaining the microbiota in good working order is key to achieving a good state of health.

Consume homemade pickled gherkins

As you have seen, it’s easy to make homemade pickled gherkins. Few ingredients and minimum time are necessary to achieve a good result that will be preserved for a period of at least 12 months without any problem.

Pickled gherkins provide a good amount of antioxidants, necessary elements to neutralize the formation of free radicals and prevent the development of chronic and complex pathologies in the medium term.