| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 48 | 0.3g | 0g | 11g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 1.5g | 2g | 2g |
I adore our Lovage Seeds Pickles recipe with an absolute passion. This recipe is a delightful fusion of my Pacific Northwest upbringing and my Japanese heritage. You might be wondering how exactly does a pickle recipe connects these two vastly different cultures, well, allow me to explain. In Japan, pickles, or ‘Tsukemono’, are a cornerstone of the traditional cuisine, while in the Pacific Northwest, fresh, zesty flavors are held on a pedestal. When you blend these two perspectives, what you get is Lovage Seeds Pickles – the crispy pickles preserved in a vinegar solution infused with lovage seeds and other flavorsome herbs.
The Taste of Traditional and Modern
The Lovage Seeds Pickles are not just another pantry staple, they are a taste bud adventure. The vibrant intensity from the lovage seeds combined with the complex tang of apple cider vinegar further coalesces with the crisp freshness of cucumbers and other vegetables to create a burst of varying flavors that is nothing short of extraordinary.
These pickles are much like the Japanese Tsukemono, bringing back the delightful memories of my time spent in Japan. Yet the use of apple cider vinegar and indigenous Northwest flavorings like dill, provide a homely touch that reminds me of the simple pleasure of eating a fresh cucumber right off the vine in Seattle. It’s a beautiful culinary interpretation of my dual heritage.
Health in Every Bite
Aside from their delightful flavor, these pickles also come with an array of health benefits. The cucumbers used are an excellent source of hydration, Apple cider vinegar is said to help in weight loss, improving digestion, and boosting heart health. At the same time, lovage seeds have been used traditionally for a variety of medicinal purposes like aiding digestion and providing relief from menstrual discomfort. Even the garlic and mustard seeds used pack quite a punch when it comes to their antioxidant properties. In short, each jar of pickles is not just a blend of unique flavors but a powerhouse of nutrition.
These pickles work wonders with a variety of dishes. They are a perfect companion for a cheese board, especially because the zesty tang compliments the creaminess of cheeses like Brie and Camembert. They also make a great addition to any barbecue menu, providing a refreshing crunch to burgers and hot dogs. Especially if you are fond of Asian cuisine, these pickles can be paired with sushi rolls and served as a palate cleanser.
So, whether you are a food enthusiast looking to try a unique recipe or someone who simply loves pickles, Lovage Seeds Pickles are a culinary must-try. They are a testament to my dual heritage, a blend of health benefits, and, most importantly, an absolute delight to the taste buds. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of cucumbers or other crisp vegetables
- 2 tablespoons of lovage seeds
- 2 cups of apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 1 teaspoon of dill seeds
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 6 sprigs of fresh dill
- 6 fresh lovage leaves
- 6 mason jars with lids
Method
Step One
First, you need to prepare the cucumbers or other vegetables. Wash them thoroughly and then cut them into desired shapes and sizes. You can go for classic pickle rounds, spears, or chunks – it’s completely up to you.
Step Two
Take your mason jars and layer the cut vegetables, lovage leaves, and fresh dill sprigs and divide them evenly between each jar.
Step Three
In a large pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, salt, sugar, lovage seeds, garlic cloves, dill seeds, and mustard seeds. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Step Four
Once the brining solution is boiling, carefully pour it into the mason jars, making sure to cover the vegetables completely. Leave about a half-inch of space at the top of each jar.
Step Five
Wipe the rims of the jars clean and then screw on the lids tightly. Let the jars cool at room temperature.
Step Six
Once the jars have cooled completely, place them in the refrigerator. Allow them to sit for at least one week before eating – this gives the flavors time to meld together.
Remember, these pickles are meant to be refrigerated and consumed within a couple of months. They are not canned pickles, therefore not shelf-stable for long-term storage. Enjoy your Lovage Seeds Pickles!
