Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons pickling spice (mixed spice blend)
- 1 teaspoon pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 pounds mixed vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, celery, etc.)
Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large pot, bring vinegar, water, sugar, salt, pickling spice, and pepper flakes (if using) to a boil.
- While the mixture is boiling, prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into appropriate sizes for pickling.
- Once the brine mixture is boiling, add the vegetables and return to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still have a crunch.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Transfer the pickled vegetables to a clean container and cover with the brine.
- Seal the container and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, assuming equal distribution of ingredients)
Calories: 150 kcal
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 1200mg (based on salt content)
Dish Characteristics:
- The dish has a traditional American pickling flavor with a slight spice from the pepper flakes.
- The vegetables are crisp and have a balance of sour and sweet flavors from the vinegar and sugar mixture.
- It's a great appetizer or side dish for any meal, especially with grilled meats or sandwiches.
User Comments:
- "Love the balance of flavors in this dish! The pickled vegetables are delicious."
- "Great recipe for making homemade pickles at home. The vegetables stay crisp and have a great taste."
- "I added more pepper flakes for a spicier kick. This dish is perfect for my American taste buds."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use clean and sterilized containers for storing the pickles to ensure proper preservation.
- Adjust the amount of pickling spice and pepper flakes according to your preference for spiciness.
- For best results, let the pickles sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
