How To Pickle Cayanne Pepper

Spice Up Your Pantry: Pickling Cayenne Peppers

Are you looking for a way to preserve your cayenne peppers while adding a tangy and flavorful twist to them? Pickling cayenne peppers is a fantastic way to do just that! Not only does pickling help extend the shelf life of these fiery peppers, but it also infuses them with a delicious combination of tanginess and heat. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of pickling cayenne peppers so you can enjoy their zesty flavor for months to come.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients and supplies:

• Fresh cayenne peppers
• White vinegar
• Water
• Garlic cloves
• Black peppercorns
• Kosher salt
• Mason jars
• Cutting board and knife

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by washing the cayenne peppers thoroughly under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife and cutting board, slice the peppers into rounds or spears, depending on your preference. Remember to wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat of the peppers.

Step 2: Prepare the Brine

In a saucepan, combine equal parts white vinegar and water. For every cup of liquid, add a teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to ensure the salt is fully dissolved. This brine will serve as the preserving liquid for your cayenne peppers.

Step 3: Pack the Jars

Place a few garlic cloves and a pinch of black peppercorns at the bottom of each mason jar. Then, pack the jars tightly with the sliced cayenne peppers. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the jar.

Step 4: Add the Brine

Pour the hot brine into the jars, ensuring that the peppers are completely submerged. Use a butter knife or chopstick to release any air bubbles trapped in the jar. Wipe the jar rims clean and seal them with the lids and bands.

Step 5: Let Them Pickle

Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. The cayenne peppers will need at least a week to develop their full pickled flavor, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for several months.

Ways to Enjoy Pickled Cayenne Peppers

Now that you have a batch of pickled cayenne peppers ready to go, here are a few delicious ways to enjoy them:

1. Add them to sandwiches and burgers for a zesty kick.
2. Chop them up and sprinkle them over tacos or nachos.
3. Incorporate them into homemade salsas and hot sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Serve them as a tangy accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie boards.

With these simple steps, you can elevate your cayenne peppers into a versatile and mouthwatering condiment that will enhance a wide variety of dishes. So, go ahead and pickle a batch of cayenne peppers to add a pop of flavor to your pantry!