The Ossington Kitchen: Spiced Pickled Crab Apples
The Ossington Kitchen: Spiced Pickled Crab Apples
Who doesn’t love a tangy and spicy pickle to add a punch to their meals? Today, we bring you a delightful recipe for Spiced Pickled Crab Apples from The Ossington Kitchen. These vibrant and flavorful crab apples are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes or even as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
- Crab Apples: As many as you desire to pickle, make sure they are small and firm
- White Vinegar: 2 cups
- Water: 2 cups
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Cinnamon Sticks: 2
- Whole Cloves: 5
- Allspice Berries: 5
- Black Peppercorns: 5
Instructions
1. Start by sterilizing the jars and lids you will be using for the pickled crab apples. Wash them with hot soapy water and then place them in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes. Remove and let them air dry.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. While the pickling liquid is heating up, carefully wash the crab apples and remove any stems or blemishes. Prick each crab apple with a fork or toothpick to prevent them from bursting during the pickling process.
4. Once the pickling liquid is boiling, carefully add the crab apples to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the crab apples cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are slightly tender.
5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crab apples to the sterilized jars. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the crab apples, making sure they are completely submerged. Use a butter knife to remove any air bubbles trapped in the jars.
6. Seal the jars tightly with the lids and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the jars for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
How to Prepare
Spiced Pickled Crab Apples are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them on their own as a zesty and tangy snack. They also make a fantastic addition to cheese platters, charcuterie boards, or sandwiches. These pickled crab apples bring a burst of flavor to any dish, adding a touch of sweetness, spice, and crunch.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for Spiced Pickled Crab Apples is approximately 30 minutes, including the time required for sterilizing the jars and letting them cool.
Servings
This recipe yields several jars of pickled crab apples, depending on the quantity of crab apples you decide to pickle. You can adjust the recipe according to your desired serving size.
Nutrition Facts
While these pickled crab apples are a delightful and flavorful treat, it’s important to note that the nutrition facts may vary depending on the size and quantity of crab apples used. Generally, crab apples are low in calories and fat, but they do contain natural sugars. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Tips
- Choose crab apples that are small and firm for pickling. They should be free of bruising or decay.
- Feel free to experiment with the spices used in the pickling liquid. You can add additional spices like star anise, ginger, or red pepper flakes to customize the flavor according to your taste preferences.
- To ensure the longevity of your pickled crab apples, make sure the jars are properly sterilized and the lids are tightly sealed before refrigeration.
FAQs
Q: How long can I keep the pickled crab apples?
A: When stored in the refrigerator, the pickled crab apples can typically be enjoyed for up to 6 months. However, for the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to consume them within the first few months.
Q: Can I use regular apples instead of crab apples?
A: While this recipe is specifically designed for crab apples, you can certainly experiment with regular apples. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe for Spiced Pickled Crab Apples a try and elevate your meals with a burst of tangy and spicy goodness!
