Tangy Pickled Endive Spears

Tangy Pickled Endive Spears

Experience a burst of flavor with these tangy pickled endive spears. Crunchy, vibrant, and delightfully zesty, these spears serve as a refreshing appetizer or a perfect side dish to elevate any meal. The pickling process enhances the natural bitterness of endive, creating a delicious balance with the sweet and tangy brine. This recipe not only serves to tantalize your taste buds but also carries a rich history, as pickling has been a method of preserving food for centuries, a technique used by various cultures worldwide to enhance flavors and ensure food longevity.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • Endive (2 heads, trimmed and separated into spears)
  • White vinegar (1 cup)
  • Water (1 cup)
  • Sugar (1/4 cup)
  • Salt (2 tablespoons)
  • Dried dill (1 tablespoon)
  • Mustard seeds (2 teaspoons)
  • Black peppercorns (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Begin by trimming the ends of the endive heads and carefully separating the leaves into spears.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and dried dill.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
  4. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and let the brine cool for a few minutes.
  5. Pack the endive spears tightly into a clean glass jar or container.
  6. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the endive spears, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, use a weight or a smaller jar to keep them down.
  7. Allow the pickled endive spears to cool to room temperature.
  8. Once cooled, cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
  9. Serve these delightful pickled endive spears chilled as a refreshing appetizer or alongside your favorite dishes.

Dietary Information

Servings: 8 • Dish Type: Appetizer/Side Dish • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 30 • Fat: 0g • Carbs: 7g • Protein: 1g • Sodium: 500mg • Sugar: 5g