What To Know
- Place the sliced fennel in a glass jar or container.
- Balance the sweetness with a touch of savory by adding a tablespoon of soy sauce to the pickling liquid.
- Store sweet pickled fennel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Indulge in the tantalizing sweetness and crisp texture of our exquisite Sweet Pickled Fennel recipe. This culinary masterpiece transforms humble fennel bulbs into a delectable treat that will elevate any dish. With its vibrant color and aromatic essence, our sweet pickled fennel will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 2 fennel bulbs, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon pickling salt
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fennel: Thinly slice the fennel bulbs into uniform pieces.
2. Create the Pickling Liquid: In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, and pickling salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the Spices: Once the pickling liquid is boiling, add the coriander seeds, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour over Fennel: Place the sliced fennel in a glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the fennel, ensuring it is completely submerged.
5. Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jar tightly and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Variations
- Spicy: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous: Include fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the pickling liquid.
- Sweet and Savory: Balance the sweetness with a touch of savory by adding a tablespoon of soy sauce to the pickling liquid.
Serving Suggestions
- Salad Toppings: Sprinkle sweet pickled fennel over salads for a burst of flavor and crunch.
- Sandwich Enhancer: Use pickled fennel as a tangy condiment on sandwiches or wraps.
- Pizza Pizzazz: Add pickled fennel to your favorite pizza for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Charcuterie Board Delight: Arrange pickled fennel alongside other cured meats and cheeses on a charcuterie board.
Benefits of Pickled Fennel
- Rich in Antioxidants: Fennel contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
- Promotes Digestion: The pickling process enhances the fennel’s digestive properties, aiding in digestion.
- Low in Calories: Pickled fennel is a low-calorie snack that can satisfy cravings without guilt.
Storage
Store sweet pickled fennel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use other vinegar besides white vinegar?
A: Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as alternatives.
Q: How long does it take for the fennel to pickle?
A: The fennel will be ready to eat after 24 hours, but the flavor will continue to develop over time.
Q: What if I don’t have pickling salt?
A: You can use regular salt, but reduce the amount by half as it is more concentrated.
