Introduction
Discover the delightful Crunchy Sake Pickles, a perfect fusion of traditional pickling methods and modern culinary twists. These pickles are not only visually appealing but also offer a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Tips for this recipe
To achieve the best results, ensure vegetables are fresh and sliced uniformly. Adjusting salt concentration can help customize crunchiness levels to personal preference. Chill prepared pickles before serving to enhance flavors.
Market your pickles promptly to enjoy peak freshness and taste.
Why you will love this recipe
The combination of unique ingredients such as sake, seasoned rice vinegar, and the aromatic shiso leaves creates an unforgettable pickle experience. The playful addition of ginger and chili adds a spicy kick to every bite while maintaining its refreshing essence.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds mixed vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, carrots, radishes)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 8 thinly sliced shiso or large basil leaves
- 1 red Fresno chile or jalapeño, cut into halves
- 3 tablespoons sake
- 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon finely grated peeled ginger
Adviced equipments
– Mason Glass Pickle Jars: Ideal for fermentation and storage.
– KitchenAid Juice Extractor Plus (Juicer with Strainer): Useful for prepping vegetables efficiently.
– SteriCool & Cleaning Mat: Essential for maintaining a hygienic workspace.
– Mason Glass Pickle Jars: A must-have for jarring pickles securely.
– OXO Good Grips 10-Pound Digital Kitchen Scales with Silicon Pad: For precise ingredient measurements.
– Wooden Spoon and CLEANAIR Bottling Siphon Kit (with safety valve & funnel): Important tools for the fermentation process.
– Pickle Ladder by Le Creuset: Makes handling jars easier.
– Breville Hand Blender and Rice Bran Mustard Seed Grinder (optional): Aids in creating blends and seasonings for enhanced flavors.
History of the recipe
The art of pickling, with its roots deeply embedded in various cultures, has transformed over centuries. Sake Pickles are a relatively modern innovation that embraces traditional methods while incorporating global influences, reflecting Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
Fun facts about this recipe
Sake pickling is not only an age-old technique but also a testament to Japanese innovation. Sake’s subtle fermentative properties contribute unique flavors, making these pickles a delightful surprise for the palate. The use of shiso and ginger isn’t just culinary preference—shiso has been used in Japan for over 1300 years for its medicinal benefits while ginger is renowned worldwide for its digestive aid properties.