A Comprehensive Guide to Pickling Beyond Cucumbers

While cucumbers are the most widely known pickled food, there is a whole world of other ingredients that can undergo the pickling process. This detailed guide will explore various types of pickled foods, including popular choices like pickled eggs and lesser-known options such as beets and okra.

Popularity of Pickled Eggs

One of the most beloved pickled foods, especially in the UK, are pickled eggs. Sold in Fish and Chip shops and perfect for picnics or as a satisfying snack, pickled eggs have a long and fascinating history. In Germany, their popularity dates back to the 18th century, with German immigrants spreading the tradition to other countries, including the United States, where pickled eggs became a common sight in German-owned bars.

Global Popularity of Pickled Foods

Across different cultures, pickling is a versatile and beloved method of preserving and enhancing flavors. In Britain, pickled eggs are a classic pub snack served alongside crisps (or potato chips). They can also be found in pickled vegetables, such as gherkins, cornichons, pickled onions, and pickled beetroot. The pickling process is not limited to the UK, as it is also widely practiced in Europe, particularly in colder regions like Germany and Denmark.

Exploring Other Pickled Ingredients

Almost any foodstuff can be pickled, giving chefs and home cooks a vast array of options. Here are some interesting examples:

Pickled Beets and Other Vegetables

Beets, unfortunately, are not a fan of pickling for me, but if you prefer them this way, they can be a sweet addition to your pickling repertoire. Okra and watermelon rind are also popular in pickling, offering unique flavors and textures.

Other vegetables that can be pickled include turmeric, ginger, garlic, and beets. While pickled beets may not be everyone's favorite, they are still a beloved option. In the UK, pickled beets are often part of a mixed pickles jar along with onions, gherkins, carrots, and cauliflower florets. You can also find them in chutneys, relishes, and pickled pepper dishes, like the famous tongue twister, 'Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.'

Another popular variant is pickled red cabbage, which is a favorite in certain regions of Britain. In other parts of the world, you might find sauerkraut and kimchi, both technically pickled foods. In Eastern Europe, you can find mixed pickles with a variety of vegetables, different from the traditional British ones.

Specialty Pickling Products

Even olives (pickled in brine) are a type of pickle, although they are not usually considered as such. Around the holiday season, you can find pickled sprouts, which are often novelty items. Pickled herring is another traditional pickled food, especially popular in Scandinavia and the UK.

Conclusion

From pickled eggs to a multitude of vegetables, pickling is a versatile and delightful way to enhance flavors and preserve foods. Whether you're cooking for a picnic, a dinner party, or just for a snack, exploring different pickled ingredients can be a fun and flavorful adventure.