Whenever I’m craving a bold, flavor-packed addition to my dishes, my pickled jalapenos and carrots are my secret ingredient.
They’re an amazing combination of fiery jalapeño heat and carrot’s sweet tang, perfect for jazzing up any meal.
Making these at home is surprisingly simple, and I’m here to guide you through it. Let’s create these zesty, irresistible bites together!
Pickled Jalapenos and Carrots Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 pound Carrots Sliced into sticks or any shape you prefer.
- 1 medium Jalapeno Sliced into coins
- 6 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 tsp black peppercorns
- Optional- 1 garlic clove
Instructions
- First things first, let's prepare the carrots and jalapeno. Slice the carrots into sticks and the jalapeno into coins.
- Place the vegetables into a sterilized glass jar.
- Combine water, white vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small pot. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved.
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the carrots and jalapeno, making sure to completely submerge them.
- Allow the jar to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, seal it, and then place it in the fridge.
- Enjoy! Allow the vegetables 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
Spicing Up Your Pickling with Spices and Aromatics
I find exploring the right blend of spices and fresh aromatics to be a fun adventure.
Here, I’ll share secrets on selecting and blending these elements to give your pickled jalapenos and carrots a unique twist:
- Mustard Seeds: Add that essential zesty, spicy note.
- Coriander Seeds: Bring in warm, citrusy undertones.
- Black Peppercorns: They’re key for a bold, earthy flavor.
- Cumin Seeds: For a touch of smoky depth.
- Fennel Seeds: Their sweet anise flavor is enchanting.
- Cloves: Introduce a strong, aromatic sweetness.
- Cinnamon Sticks: They add a subtle, warm background.
- Bay Leaves: Their herbal aroma is not to be missed.
And about those aromatics:
- Garlic: The foundation of earthy flavors.
- Ginger: Zesty and spicy, it’s a must-have.
- Onion: For that essential sweet, sharp edge.
- Lemon or Orange Peel: Bright and citrusy, perfect for balance.
- Dill: Fresh and slightly grassy.
- Rosemary: Its pine-like aroma is unmatched.
- Tarragon: Sweet and anise-like, it’s transformative.
- Thyme: Adds that necessary subtle, earthy flavor.
I love the art of pickling and I encourage you to dive into it with your unique spin.
Experimenting with different spices and aromatics is the key to making each batch uniquely yours.
And don’t forget, the type of vinegar you choose adds its own distinct flavor to your recipe.
For more detailed insights into vinegar varieties and flavor profiles, check out my vinegar guide!
Adding Pickled Jalapenos and Carrots to Everyday Meals
Once you get the hang of pickling these vibrant veggies, you’ll find they can wonderfully transform your favorite dishes with their tangy and spicy crunch.
Here are some of the ways I love to use them:
A Twist on Chicken Salad
Stirring pickled carrots and jalapenos into chicken salad adds a delightful zing.
Their spicy crunch offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken, making each bite a flavorful surprise.
Meatloaf with a Kick
Mixing these pickled gems into your meatloaf recipe elevates the traditional dish with a tangy, spicy twist.
They infuse the meatloaf with bursts of flavor, ensuring a moist and tasty meal every time.
Enjoyed the kick in our ‘Pickled Carrots and Jalapenos’? Elevate your pickling journey with a cultural twist in ‘Mexican Pickled Carrots and Jalapenos’!
Potato Salad Perfection
Adding them to potato salad transforms it into a dish that’s both comfortingly familiar and excitingly new.
The tanginess of the pickles pairs brilliantly with the creamy potatoes, adding depth and zest.
Fried Rice Reimagined
Toss in pickled jalapenos and carrots while making fried rice for an unexpected pop of flavor.
Their lively taste complements the savory rice, bringing an extraordinary twist to this classic meal.
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I’m eager to hear how you use these tangy bites in your dishes.
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Together, let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of pickling!
Until We Meet Again!
Wrapping up our recipe, I hope to have inspired you to experiment with these flavors in your kitchen.
Imagine the vibrant addition they’ll make to your meals, turning the ordinary into extraordinary.
Until our next recipe exploration, enjoy the art of pickling and the delightful flavors it brings to every bite!
