Description
Fresh strawberries are pickled in balsamic and rice vinegar, ginger, and spices like cinnamon and star anise. Packed in mason jars, these strawberries need just a day or two in the fridge to develop their full flavor.
Ingredients
400g (14 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
2 inches (5 cm) fresh ginger, grated
150 ml (2/3 cup) balsamic vinegar
50 ml (1/4 cup) rice vinegar
1/2 cup (120 ml) water
2 star anise
1 whole clove
1 cinnamon stick
A few sprigs of fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
A pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vinegar Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, rice vinegar, water, sugar, star anise, clove, cinnamon stick, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
Once it reaches a simmer, allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Jar with Strawberries and Aromatics
Place the grated ginger, halved strawberries, and mint leaves into a clean, pint-sized mason jar. Pack the ingredients evenly but avoid crushing the strawberries to retain their shape.
3. Pour the Brine
Carefully pour the hot vinegar brine over the strawberries and aromatics in the jar, filling it until the strawberries are completely submerged. Ensure the brine covers the strawberries fully to prevent exposure to air, which could affect the pickling.
4. Seal and Refrigerate
Allow the jar to cool to lukewarm temperature before sealing with a tight-fitting lid.
Once sealed, place the jar in the refrigerator and allow it to sit for at least 24 hours to develop flavors. For best results, let the strawberries pickle for 2-3 days before serving.
Notes
Storage: These pickled strawberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They are best eaten within the first week for optimal freshness.
Jar Choice: Using a pint-sized mason jar is ideal for this amount, but you can adjust the jar size depending on the quantity.
Serving Suggestions: Pickled strawberries are delicious as a topping for salads, cheese boards, or even served with grilled meats for a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Side