Nigella Lawson's Quick Gherkins

 

It is by pure chance that I had all the ingredients for this recipe so I did not hesitate at getting started and after a bit of fridge foraging I added some chopped mixed peppers for good measure. I find this recipe isn't so much about pickling but more about the mellowing of flavours and even bordering on a no fuss, no green leaf, simple vegetable salad that is a refreshing change, not surprising as the recipe is from Nigella's cookbook, Simply Nigella. This dish was a huge success in our house and even the next day, was still... or rather more flavourful and retained its crunch. 

To find this recipe and other Nigella recipes visit nigella.com

Quick Gherkins ~ NIGELLA LAWSON 

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serves 6 - 8

 

INGREDIENTS

12 - 14 ounces Lebanese cucumbers

1 teaspoon coriander seeds

1 teaspoon Kosher salt

good grinding of coarse white pepper

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2  teaspoons white balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons fresh dill (plus more to serve)

METHOD

1. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the lengths of skins off the cucumbers, so you end up with stripped cucumbers, then cut them into long batons and put into a shallow, non metallic bowl in which you can fit most of them in one layer. Add the remaining ingredients. 

2. Cover with clingfilm and swill everything around, so the cucumbers get a good coating, It may not look like there's enough liquid, but the batons will give out more liquid as they sit, and their cucumberiness melds with the spiced vinegar beautifully. Leave for at least 20 minutes before serving.