Name: Giardiniera {Pickled Vegetables}
Prep time: 48 h 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-480481H32M18S
Yield: Condiment
Ingredients: 3 cups small bite-sized cauliflower florets – provides crunch and soaks up the brine for flavor.; 1 1/2 cups sliced carrots (rounds) – adds sweetness and vibrant color.; 1 1/2 cups sliced celery – contributes a mild, peppery flavor.; 1 1/2 cups sliced red bell pepper (1 1/2 inch long pieces) – offers a sweet, juicy crunch.; 1 cup pitted green olives, drained – introduces a briny, rich flavor.; 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided – used to smooth out the sharpness of the vinegar.; 4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced in half, divided – infuses a pungent aroma and taste.; 2 Serrano chile peppers, sliced in half, divided – adds a crisp, fiery kick.; 4 bay leaves, divided – imparts a subtle depth of flavor.; 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided – brings in a classic herbaceous note.; 1 teaspoon celery seeds, divided – enhances the overall savory flavor of the mix.; 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, divided – offers a sweet, anise-like quality.; 1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds, divided – introduces a mild spiciness.; 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, divided – provides a lemony citrus flavor when crushed.; 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, divided – adds a spicy sharpness.

Description

Discover how easy it is to make your own Giardiniera! This traditional Italian condiment brings a zesty crunch to sandwiches, salads, and more. Follow our simple guide to add this flavorful pickled vegetable mix to your homemade condiments.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups small bite-sized cauliflower florets – provides crunch and soaks up the brine for flavor.
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots (rounds) – adds sweetness and vibrant color.
1 1/2 cups sliced celery – contributes a mild, peppery flavor.
1 1/2 cups sliced red bell pepper (1 1/2 inch long pieces) – offers a sweet, juicy crunch.
1 cup pitted green olives, drained – introduces a briny, rich flavor.
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided – used to smooth out the sharpness of the vinegar.
4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced in half, divided – infuses a pungent aroma and taste.
2 Serrano chile peppers, sliced in half, divided – adds a crisp, fiery kick.
4 bay leaves, divided – imparts a subtle depth of flavor.
2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided – brings in a classic herbaceous note.
1 teaspoon celery seeds, divided – enhances the overall savory flavor of the mix.
1 teaspoon fennel seeds, divided – offers a sweet, anise-like quality.
1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds, divided – introduces a mild spiciness.
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, divided – provides a lemony citrus flavor when crushed.
1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, divided – adds a spicy sharpness.

Instructions

Prep and Chop: Start by preparing all the produce into bite-sized pieces suitable for pickling.
Jar Preparation: Allocate 4 pint-sized jars. In each jar, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 garlic clove, 1/2 serrano pepper, 1 bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds, 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds, 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1/8 teaspoon coriander seeds, and a pinch of black peppercorns.
Vegetable Division: Divide the cauliflower, sliced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper between the four jars, filling them to the top.
Brine Creation: In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the salt and sugar dissolve completely.
Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the boiling brine into each jar, covering the vegetables. Allow the jars to cool at room temperature.
Seal and Store: Once cool, cover the jars with lids, give them a gentle shake to distribute the spices, and refrigerate for 36-48 hours before using.

Notes

Flavor Development: The flavor of Giardiniera improves over time. If possible, let it sit in the refrigerator for a week before using to allow the flavors to meld together more completely.
Storing: Keep the Giardiniera in a cool, dark place like a refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 weeks in a vinegary brine or 2 weeks if prepared with an oil base.
Reusing Brine: You can reuse the brine once to make a new batch of Giardiniera, but replace it after that to ensure the best flavor and food safety.
Serving Suggestions: Bring the Giardiniera to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavors. It’s perfect for adding a tangy crunch to pizzas, salads, or sandwiches.
Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spices according to your taste preferences or seasonal availability.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Brine: 2 days
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Pickling
Method: Italian