Giardiniera recipe

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Professional Recipe for Giardiniera (Italian Pickled Vegetables)

Ingredients Giardiniera


For the Vegetables:

  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup small pearl onions, peeled
  • 1 cup of green beans, trimmed and chopped into 1-inch segments

For the Brine:

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 2 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to add a touch of heat)

For Finishing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions Giardiniera RECIPE

Giardiniera
  1. Prepare the Vegetables
    • Wash and cut all vegetables into desired shapes and sizes.
    • Blanch cauliflower, carrots, and green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
  2. Make the Brine
    • In a large pot, combine water, vinegar, salt, sugar, peppercorns, mustard seeds, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  3. Combine Vegetables and Brine
    • Tightly pack the prepared vegetables into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
    • Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully covered.
  4. Seal and Store
    • Add 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil on top of the brine in each jar.
    • Seal jars tightly with lids and let cool to room temperature.
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for longer shelf life.
  5. Serve
    • Let the Giardiniera marinate for a minimum of 24 hours before serving. The flavors will deepen over time.

Tips:

  • Adjust the vegetable selection to your taste—zucchini, fennel, or hot peppers are great options.
  • To make a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or include fresh chili peppers.
  • Use high-quality vinegar and olive oil for the best flavor.

This Giardiniera can be enjoyed as a topping for sandwiches, salads, or antipasto platters. It’s a versatile and flavorful addition to many dishes.

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