Discover how to make Rauginti Agurkai, a traditional Lithuanian pickled cucumber recipe that's perfect for snacks or as a flavorful side dish. Learn the step-by-step process for creating these tangy, crunchy pickles at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) cucumbers (small, firm ones work best)

- 1 liter (4 cups) water

- 2 tbsp sea salt

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed

- 1 bunch fresh dill

- 5-6 black peppercorns

- 2-3 bay leaves

- Optional: 1-2 hot chili peppers for extra spice

Instructions:

Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If they are large, slice them into smaller pieces or spears. For best results, use small, whole cucumbers.

Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine the water, sea salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Pack the Jars: Sterilize your jars and lids. Place the garlic, dill, peppercorns, bay leaves, and optional chili peppers at the bottom of each jar. Pack the cucumbers tightly into the jars.

Add the Brine: Pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged. Leave about 1 cm (½ inch) of headspace at the top of each jar.

Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw them on tightly.

Ferment: Store the jars in a cool, dark place for 5-7 days. Check daily and skim off any foam that might form on the surface.

Refrigerate: Once the cucumbers have reached your desired level of tanginess, transfer the jars to the refrigerator. They can be eaten right away but will develop more flavor after a week or two.

Enjoy your homemade Rauginti Agurkai as a refreshing snack or a tangy side dish with your meals!

Nutritional Values

Cucumbers (1 kg)

- Calories:16 kcal per 100 grams

- Nutrients: High in water (about 95%), provides vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

Benefits:

 - Hydration: Due to their high water content, cucumbers help keep you hydrated.

 - Digestive Health: Rich in fiber and water, they support digestive health and prevent constipation.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants like vitamin C that help combat oxidative stress.

Sea Salt (2 tbsp)

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Nutrients: Sodium, trace minerals like magnesium and calcium.

Benefits:

 - Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain proper fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function.

 - Flavor Enhancement: Enhances the flavor of pickles without adding extra calories.

Sugar (1 tbsp)

- Calories:48 kcal

- Nutrients: Carbohydrates (sucrose).

Benefits:

 - Flavor Balance: Adds sweetness to balance the sourness and saltiness in pickles.

 - Preservation: Helps in the fermentation process by creating an environment conducive to beneficial bacteria.

Garlic (4 cloves)

- Calories:4 kcal per clove

- Nutrients: Vitamins C and B6, manganese, calcium, potassium.

Benefits:

 - Immune Support: Known for its immune-boosting properties and antibacterial effects.

 - Heart Health: Contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Fresh Dill (1 bunch)

- Calories:43 kcal per 100 grams

- Nutrients: Vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, manganese, and iron.

Benefits:

 - Digestive Aid: Contains compounds that can help with digestion and reduce bloating.

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Black Peppercorns (5-6)

- Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon

- Nutrients: Contains piperine, vitamin K, and small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Benefits:

 - Metabolism Boost: Piperine can enhance metabolic rate and aid digestion.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

Bay Leaves (2-3)

- Calories:1 kcal per leaf

- Nutrients: Vitamins A, C, and B6, iron, and manganese.

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Promotes healthy digestion and can relieve symptoms of digestive disorders.

 - Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

Hot Chili Peppers (Optional)

- Calories:18 kcal per 100 grams

- Nutrients: Vitamins A, C, and E, capsaicin.

Benefits:

 - Metabolism Booster: Capsaicin can boost metabolism and aid in weight management.

 - Pain Relief: Capsaicin has pain-relieving properties and may reduce inflammation.

These ingredients not only add flavor to your Rauginti Agurkai but also provide various nutritional benefits that contribute to overall health.