Ready to spice up your snack game? Let’s talk pickled carrots and celery.
This crunchy, tangy treat turned out to be surprisingly simple to make, and I’m happy to share the process with you.
With just a few common ingredients, I whipped up a homemade delight that’s been a hit in my house.
If you’re like me, always on the lookout for quick and flavorful bites, this is definitely something you’ll want to try. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Pickled Carrots & Celery Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound Carrots Sliced into sticks or any shape you prefer.
- 1/2 Celery Sliced into sticks or any shape you prefer.
- 5 Ounces Vinegar- White vinegar or vinegar of choice.
- 5 Ounces Water
- 1 tbsp Sea salt or kosher salt- Check the label to ensure your sea salt or kosher salt is pure, without anti-caking agents or iodine, as they can impact the flavor and look of your vegetables.
- 1 tbsp Sugar- For a low-carb or keto option try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional- 1 bay leaf
- Optional- 1 garlic clove
Instructions
- Vegetable Prep: Slice the carrots and ginger into sticks
- Jar Setup: Add the sliced carrots and celery to a sterile, clean jar.
- Making the Brine: Add water, white vinegar, sugar, and salt into a small pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Adding the Brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables. Make sure they are fully submerged.
- Letting it Cool: Let the jar sit at room temperature uncovered for 1-2 hours, then seal and refrigerate.
- Enjoy! Allow the carrots and celery to pickle for at least 24 hours for optimal taste, though 48 hours is recommended for the flavors to develop fully. Store them in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
Unlocking the Magic of Pickling Spices and Aromatics
One thing I’ve learned when pickling is how a blend of spices and fresh aromatics can transform a basic pickling recipe.
In this part, I’ll share some of my favorites, infusing your pickled carrots and celery with a burst of unique flavors.
- Mustard Seeds: These little gems add a tangy and slightly spicy zing.
- Coriander Seeds: They’re all about that warm, citrusy twist.
- Black Peppercorns: Expect a bold, earthy punch.
- Cumin Seeds: They’re your go-to for smoky, rich undertones.
- Fennel Seeds: Enjoy their sweet, anise-like flavor.
- Cloves: They’ll bring an intense, aromatic sweetness.
- Cinnamon Sticks: For that subtle, warm sweetness.
- Bay Leaves: They add a gentle, herbal touch.
And let’s not forget the aromatics:
- Garlic: It’s all about that robust, earthy goodness.
- Ginger: Adds a kick of zest and spice.
- Onion: Brings a balance of sweet and sharp.
- Citrus Juice/Zest (Lemon or Lime): They’re perfect for a splash of bright, citrusy freshness.
- Dill: Offers a hint of fresh, grassy flavor.
- Rosemary: Known for its pine-like, fragrant quality.
- Tarragon: It’s like a sweet, licorice-like whisper.
- Thyme: For a touch of subtle, earthy flavor.
If the classic combination of ‘Carrots and Celery’ left you craving more zest, our ‘Pickled Carrots and Jalapenos’ will ignite your taste buds!
Perfect Pairings for Pickled Carrots and Celery
As a fan of both pickled snacks and delightful dips, I’ve rounded up some dip suggestions that pair wonderfully with our tangy recipe:
- Fresh Garden Salads: Toss them into a leafy green salad for an extra zing.
- Veggie Wraps: Incorporate them into your wraps for an added crunch and flavor kick.
- Savory Grain Bowls: Mix them into quinoa or rice bowls for a refreshing taste.
My Favorite Dips Are A Perfect Match for Pickled Veggies
Herb and Garlic Yogurt Dip-The tanginess of the yogurt complements the acidity of the pickles, while garlic and herbs add a fresh dimension.
Hummus-Hummus is quite versatile and pairs nicely. Its earthy flavor provides a nice balance to the acidity of the pickled vegetables.
Tahini Sauce– The nutty and rich flavor of tahini balances the sourness of pickled veggies, making it a good choice.
Dive Into Our Pickling Circle
Join our vibrant circle of pickle lovers and discover the delightful world of pickling carrots and more!
I’m super excited to learn about your unique twists on using these zesty treats in your meals.
Chat, connect, and share your pickling tales with fellow culinary adventurers in our lively group.
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Commonly Asked Pickling Questions
Welcome to the FAQ section of this post! I’ve compiled a selection of frequently asked questions about pickling, aimed at guiding and enhancing your pickling experience.
Carrots and celery typically reach their optimal flavor when pickled for about 2 to 3 days, allowing the flavors to fully infuse while maintaining a crisp texture.
Yes, you can reuse pickling brine for multiple batches, but it’s best to do so within a week and ensure it’s brought to a boil each time to maintain safety and flavor quality.
Yes, celery is excellent for pickling. Its natural crunch and mild flavor make it an ideal candidate for absorbing the tangy, spiced brine.
