Cherry Pepper Pickle Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Cherry peppers are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, perfect for adding a zesty punch to any meal. When pickled, these vibrant little peppers take on an irresistible tang that complements everything from sandwiches to charcuterie boards.

Making your own cherry pepper pickles at home is easier than you might think, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience. Whether you’re a seasoned pickler or a curious kitchen adventurer, this recipe will guide you through every step to create crunchy, flavorful pickled cherry peppers that will impress your family and friends.

Not only do homemade cherry pepper pickles taste fantastic, but they also preserve the peppers’ natural brightness and heat, making them a versatile condiment to keep on hand. Plus, you’ll avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives found in store-bought versions.

Ready to dive into the world of pickling? Let’s explore why this recipe is a must-try and how you can easily craft your own jar of spicy-sweet goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry pepper pickle recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it strikes the perfect balance between heat and sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile that enhances a variety of dishes.

The pickling brine is simple yet flavorful, combining vinegar, sugar, and spices that infuse the peppers with a bright, tangy taste.

Secondly, the recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer seeds, or experiment by adding herbs like oregano or garlic for added depth.

The pickles keep well in the fridge for weeks, making them a convenient snack or garnish to elevate your meals.

Lastly, making your own pickles is rewarding and economical. You get fresh, crisp, homemade pickled cherry peppers without the preservatives or artificial flavors found in commercial products.

If you enjoy recipes like this, be sure to check out my Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for tasty ideas that pair wonderfully with pickled peppers.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh cherry peppers, washed and dried
• 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Equipment

• 1 large glass jar with lid (about 1-quart size), sterilized
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or fork (for handling hot jars)
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the peppers: Using a small knife, carefully slice a small “X” or make a few slits on each cherry pepper. This allows the brine to penetrate and flavors to infuse deeply.
2. Make the brine: In a medium saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
3. Add spices and garlic: Once the brine is boiling, add the garlic cloves, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and oregano. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
4. Pack the jar: Place the prepared cherry peppers tightly into the sterilized glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the peppers, making sure they are fully submerged. Use a spoon to press down any floating peppers.
5. Seal and cool: Wipe the rim of the jar clean and seal it with the lid. Let the jar cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate: Place the jar in the refrigerator and allow the peppers to pickle for at least 48 hours before eating. For best flavor, wait 5-7 days. The pickles will stay fresh for up to 4 weeks.

Tips & Variations

“For a milder pickle, remove the seeds from the cherry peppers before pickling. If you prefer extra heat, leave the seeds in and add extra red pepper flakes.”

To enhance the flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the jar. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar such as apple cider or red wine vinegar to add unique notes to your pickles.

If you want a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons. For a more savory profile, add a teaspoon of whole coriander seeds or a bay leaf to the brine.

Looking for more exciting pickling and preserving ideas? Check out my Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for creative ways to prepare and enjoy your preserved foods on the go.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

Serving Suggestions

Pickled cherry peppers add a wonderful kick to many dishes. Try them sliced on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for a burst of flavor.

They are fantastic when chopped and tossed into pasta salads, antipasto platters, or mixed into cream cheese spreads.

For a fun appetizer, stuff the pickled peppers with soft cheeses or vegan cream cheese and serve alongside crackers or fresh veggies. They also make a vibrant, spicy garnish for Bloody Mary cocktails or add zest to cheese boards.

Want more delicious plant-based recipe ideas? Don’t miss my Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for a flavorful and satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with pickled accompaniments.

Conclusion

Homemade cherry pepper pickles are a fantastic way to preserve the spicy-sweet charm of these vibrant peppers. This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and yields a delicious condiment that will brighten up a variety of meals.

Whether you’re adding them to sandwiches, salads, or enjoying them as a tangy snack, these pickles bring a perfect balance of heat and tang.

Pickling at home also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking, offering a fresh alternative to store-bought options. Give this cherry pepper pickle recipe a try—you’ll find it’s a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

For more exciting vegetable and vegan recipes, feel free to explore my collection and keep your kitchen vibrant and flavorful!

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