Garlic lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking to add a zesty kick to your dishes or want to enjoy the sharp tang of garlic in a whole new way, this Pickled Garlic recipe is just what you need. Perfect for elevating salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards, pickled garlic adds a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch to your favorite foods. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create your very own jar of delicious pickled garlic to enjoy at home.
**Pickled Garlic Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup peeled garlic cloves
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by preparing your garlic cloves. Peel the garlic cloves and trim off any tough ends, ensuring they are clean and ready for pickling.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
3. Place the peeled garlic cloves and fresh thyme sprigs (if using) into a clean, sterilized glass jar. Make sure the jar is large enough to hold all the garlic cloves comfortably.
4. Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the garlic cloves in the jar, ensuring they are completely submerged. Use a spoon to press down on the garlic cloves to remove any air bubbles.
5. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the jar in the refrigerator to chill. The pickled garlic will continue to develop flavor as it marinates in the brine.
6. Let the pickled garlic sit in the refrigerator for at least one week before enjoying. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a truly delicious condiment.
7. Pickled garlic can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the jar with the date it was made for easy reference.
There you have it – your very own homemade pickled garlic ready to add a burst of flavor to your culinary creations! Whether you chop it up to garnish your favorite dishes or enjoy it straight from the jar as a flavorful snack, this pickled garlic recipe is a versatile condiment that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking, and don’t be afraid to get creative with how you use it in your meals. Happy pickling!
