This yellow pickle recipe is a vibrant and flavorful take on classic pickled vegetables, infused with aromatic spices and turmeric for a beautiful golden hue. Made with carrots, green beans, and cucumbers, this pickle is slightly tangy, mildly sweet, and packed with crunch. The turmeric and mustard seeds add a depth of earthy warmth, making it the perfect side dish or condiment to pair with rice dishes, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into thin sticks
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into spears
For the Pickling Brine:
- 2 cups white vinegar (apple cider vinegar can be used for extra tang)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for the signature yellow color)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bay leaf
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into thin sticks.
- Trim the green beans, removing the ends.
- Slice the cucumber into spears or rounds.
Step 2: Blanch the Vegetables (Optional, for softer texture)
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add carrots and green beans, blanching for 2 minutes.
- Drain and immediately transfer them to cold water to stop cooking.
- Drain again and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
- In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
- Add turmeric, mustard seeds, peppercorns, chili flakes, garlic, and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Let it simmer for 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pickles
- Place the carrots, green beans, and cucumbers into sterilized glass jars.
- Pour the hot pickling brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Tap the jars gently to release air bubbles.
- Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Marinate and Enjoy
- Refrigerate the pickles for at least 24 hours before consuming, allowing flavors to develop.
- For deeper flavor, let them sit for 3–5 days before serving.
- Enjoy with rice dishes, grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a crunchy snack!
Tips for the Perfect Yellow Pickles:
- Use fresh vegetables for the best texture.
- Adjust acidity by modifying the vinegar-to-water ratio.
- For sweetness, increase sugar slightly or add honey.
- Experiment with spices like coriander seeds or fennel for a unique twist.
This golden, tangy pickle is a simple way to brighten up meals with crunchy, flavorful vegetables! Want variations, like adding cauliflower or bell peppers? Let’s customize it to suit your taste.