Chef Bihi Vegetable Pickles
Are you ready to elevate your meals and snacks with a zesty twist? Vegetable pickles are not just a culinary treat; they are a wonderful way to preserve your favorite veggies while adding a delightful crunch and tang. Whether you’re looking to spice up a sandwich, enhance a charcuterie platter, or enjoy them straight from the jar, this recipe is a must-try!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4-6 jars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rest Time: 4-5 days
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to create your vegetable pickles:
- 300 ml of water
- 200 ml of vinegar (white or cider vinegar can be used)
- 100 g of sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- Several coriander seeds
- Vegetable options (choose any mix):
- Onions
- Cauliflower
- Carrots
- Radishes
- Beetroots
- Pickles (gherkin)
Instructions
- Prepare your chosen vegetables: wash and slice them as desired. For instance, you can cut radishes into quarters, carrots into thin slices, and chop beetroots into chunky cubes.
- In a saucepan, combine the water, vinegar, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Place the sliced vegetables into clean jars.
- Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, covering them completely.
- Add a bay leaf and coriander seeds into each jar for added flavor.
- Let the jars cool at room temperature for about 2 hours.
- Seal the jars and refrigerate them.
- Allow the pickles to rest in the refrigerator for 4-5 days before tasting to let the flavors develop.
Notes
For added versatility, feel free to experiment with other vegetables or spices that you enjoy. Also, a little bit of the leftover brine can be saved to make a delicious vinaigrette for salads!
Recipe Tips
Utilize high-quality, airtight jars to preserve your pickles. ‘Le Parfait’ jars are particularly sturdy and reliable for these kinds of preserves.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately 45 calories per serving, depending on the vegetables used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long can I store the pickles?
Your pickles can last for several weeks in the fridge, but for the best flavor, consume them within 1-2 months.
2. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that this might change the taste of the pickles.
3. What vegetables work best for pickling?
Firm vegetables that can retain their crunch are ideal. Carrots, radishes, and cucumbers are popular choices for pickling.
4. Do I need to sterilize the jars?
It is recommended to sterilize jars before use to prevent contamination and to ensure the longevity of your pickles.
5. Can I modify the sugar amount?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. Reducing sugar will yield tangier pickles, while increasing it will make them sweeter.
