Are you looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer or a surprisingly delicious twist on a classic? Look no further! This pickled bologna recipe is a simple, yet impressive dish that's perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick and easy snack. It's a fun, unexpected take on a familiar ingredient, resulting in a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet treat. This recipe delivers a fantastic combination of flavors and textures, proving that homemade cooking can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. Let's get started on this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bologna, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
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Prepare the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), smashed garlic, and sliced onion. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Pack the Bologna: Carefully arrange the bologna slices in a clean glass jar, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
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Pour the Brine: Once the brine is boiling, carefully pour it over the bologna slices, ensuring all the slices are completely submerged.
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Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, tightly seal the lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or preferably up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more the bologna will absorb the flavors of the brine.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pickled bologna from the refrigerator and serve. This is best served chilled and makes a fantastic appetizer or addition to a charcuterie board.
Tips for the Best Pickled Bologna:
- Use good quality bologna: While this recipe is forgiving, using a higher-quality bologna will result in a more flavorful final product.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Add other vegetables: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, add other vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the jar along with the bologna.
- Sterilize your jar: For longer storage, sterilize your jar and lid by boiling them in water for a few minutes before packing the bologna.
Variations:
- Spicy Pickled Bologna: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few slices of jalapeño to the brine for an extra kick.
- Sweet and Spicy Pickled Bologna: Add a tablespoon or two of honey or maple syrup to the brine for a sweet and spicy combination.
- Pickled Bologna with Herbs: Add a sprig of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the brine for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A single serving (approximately 2-3 slices of pickled bologna) will contain roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy recipe is a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can also be healthy meals and delicious dishes. With a little creativity, you can transform simple ingredients into something truly special. This pickled bologna is a testament to the power of homemade cooking, offering a surprising and satisfying culinary experience. Enjoy!