Cycle-Friendly Pickles – A Swedish-Inspired Snack

Last summer in Sweden, I stumbled upon a simple yet surprisingly satisfying combination: pickles paired with a mildly sweet and savory soy dip. The freshness of cucumbers, dill, and ginger, combined with a creamy dip and a touch of honey – an unexpectedly harmonious blend.

Since then, I’ve refined the recipe using ingredients that not only taste great but also naturally support women’s health. The result is a light, digestion-friendly snack rich in nutrients and perfect for bringing balance to your body and hormones.

Here are the three most powerful benefits – and the full recipe to try at home.

Hormone Balance Through Apple Cider Vinegar & Gentle Fermentation

Apple cider vinegar is alkalizing, supports digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar – especially helpful if you deal with cravings, mood swings, or PMS.Thanks to the brine, gentle fermentation may occur, which strengthens your gut microbiome. A healthy gut is essential for optimal hormone metabolism, especially through the liver. This is a foundational step toward hormonal harmony.

Natural Support from Ginger, Dill & Pepper

These three herbs and spices directly target typical cycle-related symptoms:

• Ginger helps relieve cramps and supports menstrual pain.

• Dill calms the body, aids digestion, and eases bloating – a common concern in the luteal phase.

• Pepper adds warmth to the metabolism, supports nutrient absorption, and stimulates digestion.

Together, they nurture your core – gently and naturally.

Plant-Based Protein & Gentle Sweetness in the Soy Dip

The soy-based dip provides you with high-quality plant protein – essential for cell repair, hormone production, and muscle health. It also contains phytoestrogens, which can help naturally balance hormonal fluctuations.A small spoonful of honey not only enhances the flavor but also offers antibacterial properties and a quick, natural energy boost – ideal before a workout or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

My Recipe for Cycle-Friendly Pickles with Soy Dip

For the pickles:

• 400 g snack cucumbers

• 400 ml water + 12 g salt

• 200 ml apple cider vinegar

• 200 ml hot water + 1 tbsp salt

• A few peppercorns

• 1–2 tsp dried or fresh dill

• 2–3 slices of fresh ginger

Instructions:

1. Soak the cucumbers in ice-cold water for 1 hour.

2. Then, place them in a salt brine (400 ml water + 12 g salt) for 4–6 hours.

3. Transfer into a glass jar and pour over the apple cider vinegar, hot salted water, peppercorns, dill, and ginger.

4. Close the jar and store in the fridge. They’re ready to enjoy immediately but will develop more flavor after a few days.

For the soy dip:

• Stir soy quark until smooth

• Season with salt and pepper

• Add a small spoonful of honey

• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired

Dip in your pickles and enjoy – as a refreshing afternoon snack, a light side dish, or a hormone-friendly appetizer.

If you feel inspired to try it, I’d love to hear your feedback. Who knows – this might just become your new favorite summer snack, too. 🌞