Forktionary

Gherkins

Cucumis sativus (pickled variety) Condiments & Preserves

Gherkins Condiments & Preserves

At a Glance

  • Category Condiments & Preserves

The Forktionary Angle

"The essential tangy crunch that brightens any dish, from sandwiches to charcuterie boards."

Definition

Small, immature cucumbers pickled in vinegar or brine, offering a tart, crunchy, and often tangy flavor, popular as a condiment or snack.

Culinary Use Condiment & Snack (85%)
Key Flavor Component Acetic acid (from vinegar)
Texture Contribution Crisp & Firm

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Gherkins are:

Tart sour tangy salty crunchy

Chef’s Secret

Finely chop gherkins and mix them into mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a quick, zesty tartare sauce or sandwich spread.

Best Substitutes

Dill Pickles

larger size
Ratio 1:1

Capers

smaller, saltier
Ratio 1:1

Pickled Onions

different texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for firm, unbroken gherkins in clear brine. Avoid jars with cloudy brine or soft gherkins.

Culinary Pairings

Cold cuts cheese sandwiches burgers pâtés salads fish and chips

Recipes Using Gherkins

Barbecued Potato Salad image 107
Cuisine Salads Main Ingredient Time To Make

Barbecued Potato Salad

Fire up the grill for this Aussie-inspired BBQ Potato Salad! This vibrant recipe, adapted from Taste.com.au, combines perfectly tender potatoes with a tangy, creamy dressing. Get ready for smoky, chargrilled potatoes that are the perfect summer side dish. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

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Anne's Colourful Pasta Salad image
Time To Make Served Cold Camping Vegetables

Anne's Colourful Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad recipe, from my friend Anne, is a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a quick weeknight meal! It's easy to make, customizable to your favorite veggies, and bursting with fresh flavor. The unique dressing sets it apart from other pasta salads you've tried. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Beer Battered Fish With Tartar Sauce image
Cuisine Seafood Main Dish English

Beer Battered Fish With Tartar Sauce

Relive the magic of Irish fish and chips with this crispy, golden beer-battered fish recipe! Inspired by a trip to Ireland, this recipe delivers perfectly crisp fish, thanks to the secret of frying in small batches. Use cod, haddock, pollack, or hake – any member of the cod family will work. Serve with your favorite chips (waffle fries recommended!) for an authentic taste of Ireland. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Pair with a crisp beer or an acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio for the ultimate culinary experience.

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Austrian Tafelspitz image
Course Preparation Time To Make Cuisine

Austrian Tafelspitz

Indulge in the imperial flavors of Austria with this authentic Tafelspitz recipe! This Viennese boiled beef, a national treasure, is simmered to perfection with aromatic root vegetables and spices, creating a rich and comforting broth. Learn the secrets to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, just like they served to Emperor Franz Joseph I! Served with crispy roasted potatoes and a vibrant horseradish apple sauce (or creamy horseradish sour cream), this dish is a culinary masterpiece perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

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