Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for pickled shiitake mushrooms and carrots, combining tender mushrooms with crisp carrots in a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory rice vinegar-based brine. Perfect as a condiment or side dish to add a refreshing Asian-inspired touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Mushrooms and Veggies
- 1 cup dried shiitake mushrooms
- 1 cup julienned carrots
Pickling Liquid
- 1 cup rice vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Soak mushrooms: Place the dried shiitake mushrooms in hot water and let them soak for 20–30 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain the mushrooms well and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare pickling liquid: In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, water, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
- Add aromatics: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the thinly sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Allow the flavors to infuse by setting the mixture aside briefly.
- Assemble pickles: In a clean jar or container, layer the sliced shiitake mushrooms and julienned carrots evenly. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged to encourage even pickling.
- Cool and refrigerate: Let the jar cool down to room temperature. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best to develop deeper flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle the pickled mushrooms and carrots with sesame oil for added aroma and richness, if desired. Enjoy as a flavorful condiment or side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute dried shiitake mushrooms with fresh ones by slicing and briefly blanching them before pickling.
- These pickled mushrooms and carrots keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks when stored in a sealed container.
