Description

Pickled garlic is a flavorful, tangy condiment made by pickling garlic cloves in a vinegar-based brine with spices like peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds for added depth. Perfect for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or as a homemade topping that elevates any dish. Easily paired with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even cocktails.

Ingredients

For the Pickled Garlic:

– 6 medium heads of garlic (or 2 cups peeled cloves)

– 1 cup white or apple cider vinegar (5% acidity; substitute red wine or champagne vinegar if needed)

– 1 cup filtered water

– 1½ tsp sugar (substitute stevia or monk fruit for low-sugar diets)

– 1 tsp pickling, sea, or kosher salt (adjust to taste; substitute low-sodium options if needed)

Optional Spices:

– 1 tsp black peppercorns

– 1 tsp coriander seeds

– ½ tsp mustard seeds

– ½ tsp cumin seeds

Special Equipment:

– 1 pint jar (or 2 half-pint jars)

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Instructions

Separate the cloves from each head of garlic. Trim the tough bottoms and peel the cloves. For faster peeling, shake the cloves in a lidded jar until the skins loosen.
Pack the peeled cloves into a 1-pint jar, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, and cumin seeds (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt dissolve. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat.
Pour the hot brine over the garlic cloves, ensuring all cloves are fully submerged. Add more brine (equal parts vinegar and water) if needed.
Let the jar cool on the counter for about 1 hour. Once cool, seal with a plastic cap or lid and store in the refrigerator.
Allow the flavors to develop for at least 1 week before enjoying.

Notes

– Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor and aroma. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to 3 months. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. Always use clean utensils when serving from the jar to avoid contamination.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Condiment / Side Dish
Method: Pickling
Cuisine: American / Global

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 cloves
Calories: ~10
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg