When it comes to making delicious homemade cucumber pickles, simplicity is key. Forget about adding complicated ingredients like soju, vinegar, or sugar – with the right method, you can achieve pickles that are bursting with flavor and guaranteed to succeed every time. Whether you’re a seasoned pickling pro or trying your hand at it for the first time, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to pickle perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Fresh cucumbers (pickling cucumbers work best)

• Kosher salt or pickling salt

• Water

• Optional flavorings: garlic cloves, dill seeds, mustard seeds, peppercorns, red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly and trimming off the ends. If your cucumbers are on the larger side, you can slice them into spears or rounds according to your preference.

2. Create a Brine: In a large bowl or container, mix together water and kosher salt to create a brine solution. The ratio of salt to water is typically 1 tablespoon of salt per cup of water, but you can adjust according to your taste preferences.

3. Submerge the Cucumbers: Place your prepared cucumbers into the brine solution, making sure they are fully submerged. You can use a plate or weight to keep them under the brine if necessary. Let them soak for at least 12 hours or overnight.

4. Add Flavorings (Optional): If desired, you can enhance the flavor of your pickles by adding garlic cloves, dill seeds, mustard seeds, peppercorns, or red pepper flakes to the brine. These ingredients will infuse your pickles with delicious flavor nuances.

5. Transfer to Jars: Once your cucumbers have finished soaking, remove them from the brine and transfer them to clean, sterilized jars. Pack them tightly to ensure they fit snugly.

6. Store and Wait: Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. Your pickles will continue to develop flavor over time, but they should be ready to enjoy within a week. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they will become.

Why This Method Works: By using a simple saltwater brine, you allow the natural fermentation process to occur, resulting in tangy, flavorful pickles without the need for additional ingredients like soju, vinegar, or sugar. Plus, the optional flavorings give you the freedom to customize your pickles to suit your taste preferences.

Enjoy Your Homemade Pickles: Once you’ve mastered this easy cucumber pickle recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought again. Enjoy your tangy, crunchy pickles straight from the jar, or use them to add a burst of flavor to sandwiches, salads, and snacks. With this foolproof method, pickle perfection is within reach!