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Easy Pickled Carrots

A crunchy, zesty addition to your meals that enhances flavors and reduces food waste, these Easy Pickled Carrots are simple to make and bursting with vibrant flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
  • 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
  • 1 cup water
  • ΒΌ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
Spices (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed optional
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds optional
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice, optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by peeling the carrots and cutting them into thin matchsticks to enhance pickling and crunch.
Making the Brine
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
  2. If using garlic, mustard seeds, or red pepper flakes, add them to the saucepan once the brine is boiling, allowing their flavors to meld.
Packing and Storing
  1. Place the carrot matchsticks into clean jars. You can use one large jar or several smaller ones as per your preference.
  2. Carefully pour the hot brine over the carrots in the jars until they are fully submerged, leaving some space at the top.
  3. Allow jars to cool to room temperature, seal with lids, and refrigerate. For the best flavor, wait at least 24 hours before tasting.

Notes

For optimal freshness, store in an airtight container and consume within two weeks. Use clean utensils for serving to extend shelf life. Experiment with spices like coriander or dill for variations.