Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe to add a zing to your meals? These spicy pickled green beans are the perfect solution! They're incredibly flavorful, surprisingly simple to make, and a fantastic addition to any meal, from sandwiches and salads to tacos and charcuterie boards. This homemade recipe lets you control the spice level, making it adaptable to your taste. Get ready to experience the delightful crunch and tangy heat of these addictive pickled green beans!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2-4 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to your spice preference; remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. You can leave them whole or snap them in half, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Combine the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Step 3: Pack the Jar
While the brine is heating, pack the green beans, jalapeños, garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using) into a clean, sterilized pint-sized jar. Leave about half an inch of space at the top of the jar.
Step 4: Pour and Seal
Carefully pour the boiling brine over the green beans in the jar, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace. Wipe the rim of the jar clean, and seal tightly with a lid.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
Let the jar cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. Allow the pickled green beans to sit for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. They'll continue to develop flavor over time, becoming even more delicious after a few days.
Tips for the Best Pickled Green Beans:
- Sterilizing Jars: For optimal safety and preservation, sterilize your jars before using them. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water, rinsing thoroughly, and then placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and red pepper flakes to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more if you prefer a hotter pickle. Removing the seeds from the jalapeños significantly reduces the heat.
- Other Flavor Additions: Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs. Dill, coriander seeds, or a bay leaf would all make delicious additions.
- Storage: Once opened, store your pickled green beans in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 30-40
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
- Fat: Approximately 0g
This recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals. The spicy pickled green beans are a delicious and convenient way to add a burst of flavor and a healthy crunch to your favorite dishes. Enjoy!