Are you ready to add a punch of flavor to your dishes? Pickled garlic is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors! With its tangy, slightly sweet, and intensely garlicky taste, it’s no wonder this condiment has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. In this article, we’ll explore 18 spicy pickled garlic recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.
From classic combinations like Spicy Honey Pickled Garlic to more adventurous flavors like Korean Gochujang Pickled Garlic, these recipes will satisfy any craving for a flavorful kick. Whether you’re looking to add depth to a simple dish or create a show-stopping condiment for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive in and discover the world of spicy pickled garlic!
Spicy Honey Pickled Garlic
Elevate your flavor game with this sweet and spicy pickled garlic recipe! Perfect as a condiment, topping, or addition to sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine garlic cloves and salt. Massage with your hands for 5 minutes to help release the enzymes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, water, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic mixture to the saucepan and stir to coat. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
4. Transfer the pickled garlic to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus cooling time)
Quick Pickled Garlic with Chili Flakes
Elevate your meals with this spicy and tangy condiment made in just a few minutes! This recipe is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup garlic cloves, separated
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine garlic cloves, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the garlic is tender.
4. Stir in chili flakes and remove from heat.
5. Let the pickled garlic cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Dill Pickled Garlic Cloves
Transform ordinary garlic cloves into a tangy and flavorful condiment perfect for elevating your favorite dishes. This simple recipe yields a delicious accompaniment to meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the garlic cloves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Add minced garlic and chopped fresh dill on top of the garlic cloves.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Szechuan-Style Pickled Garlic
This recipe adds a bold Szechuan twist to traditional pickled garlic, infusing the pungent flavor with the numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns. The result is a tangy and aromatic condiment perfect for elevating Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, Szechuan peppercorns, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the garlic cloves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) of headspace.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickled Garlic with Red Pepper and Vinegar
Add a burst of flavor to your dishes with this easy-to-make pickled garlic recipe, featuring sweet red peppers and tangy vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the garlic and sliced red peppers.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the vinegar, water, and sugar until dissolved.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the garlic and red pepper mixture.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the garlic is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Strain the pickling liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Add the cooled garlic and red peppers.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pickled Garlic
Add a tangy kick to your meals with this sweet and spicy pickled garlic recipe! This flavorful condiment is perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) honey
– 1 tablespoon (15g) hot sauce (e.g., sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, honey, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack garlic cloves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Pour the pickling liquid over the garlic, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Korean Gochujang Pickled Garlic
Get ready to elevate your Korean-inspired meals with this addictive and spicy pickled garlic recipe, made possible by the savory and sweet gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole garlic cloves
– 2 cups gochujang paste
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until slightly tender.
2. In a saucepan, combine gochujang paste, rice vinegar, sugar, water, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove roasted garlic from the foil and add it to the saucepan. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the garlic is fully coated with the gochujang mixture.
4. Let the pickled garlic cool before refrigerating it. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Garlic with Jalapeños and Lime
Elevate your dishes with this zesty and aromatic pickled garlic recipe, infused with the bold flavors of jalapeños and lime. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic cloves, jalapeño slices, and lime juice to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until garlic is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the pickled garlic mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Pickled Garlic with Bird’s Eye Chili
This recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the spicy kick of bird’s eye chili, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1-2 bird’s eye chilies, sliced thinly
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine garlic cloves and vinegar.
2. Add water, sugar, and salt; stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Slice the bird’s eye chilies into thin strips and add to the mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 7 days.
5. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 24 hours
Garlic and Ginger Pickled in Apple Cider Vinegar
A flavorful condiment perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or using as a side dish. This recipe combines the pungency of garlic and ginger with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ginger, garlic, apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the pickling liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Discard solids.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Pickled Garlic
Add a smoky kick to your dishes with this recipe for Smoky Chipotle Pickled Garlic. This spicy and tangy condiment is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the garlic cloves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic, leaving about 1/2 inch (1cm) headspace.
6. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pickled Garlic with Mustard Seeds and Turmeric
This recipe adds a burst of flavor to your meals by pickling garlic cloves with mustard seeds and turmeric. The result is a tangy, slightly spicy condiment that pairs well with meats, vegetables, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine garlic cloves, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate saucepan, bring the vinegar and water to a boil.
3. Pour the hot liquid over the garlic mixture, making sure that all the cloves are submerged.
4. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 1 week.
5. Serve chilled, with or without the pickling liquid.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus cooling and refrigeration time)
Vietnamese Pickled Garlic with Fish Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your dishes with this simple and aromatic Vietnamese pickled garlic recipe, infused with the savory goodness of fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the garlic cloves and salt. Massage the salt into the garlic with your hands for about 5 minutes to release its natural enzymes.
2. Rinse the garlic under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, water, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic cloves, making sure they are fully submerged. Let it cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate the pickled garlic for at least 24 hours or up to 1 week before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (pickling liquid), 24+ hours (refrigeration)
Pickled Garlic and Habanero Peppers
This recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the intense heat of habanero peppers, creating a delicious condiment perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 4-6 habanero peppers, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine garlic cloves and sliced habanero peppers.
2. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the salt is dissolved.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic and habanero mixture. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 2 weeks.
5. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation), 24-48 hours (pickling time)
Garlic Pickled in Rice Vinegar and Star Anise
This recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the sweetness of star anise, all wrapped up in a tangy rice vinegar brine. Perfect as a condiment or side dish, these pickles add depth and complexity to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed garlic cloves (including green and purple varieties)
– 1 cup rice vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine garlic cloves and salt. Massage with your hands for about 5 minutes to release the enzymes.
2. In a saucepan, combine rice vinegar, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add star anise pods. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the pickling liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into the garlic bowl. Discard the solids (star anise).
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes steeping time)
Pickled Garlic with Black Peppercorns and Bay Leaves
Elevate your dishes with the pungent flavor of pickled garlic, perfectly balanced by the warmth of black peppercorns and the subtle sweetness of bay leaves. This simple recipe is a great addition to any meal, from soups to sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 2-3 bay leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the garlic is tender and pickled.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain out the solids using a slotted spoon.
4. Transfer the pickled garlic to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Style Pickled Garlic with Oregano
Elevate your Mexican dishes with this addictive condiment, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, and vegetables. This recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the earthy flavor of oregano, all wrapped up in a tangy pickling liquid.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack the garlic cloves into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic, leaving about 1/4 inch (6mm) of headspace at the top.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Store the pickled garlic in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pickled Garlic with Lemongrass and Thai Basil
This recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the citrusy freshness of lemongrass and the aromatic flavor of Thai basil, creating a delicious condiment perfect for elevating various dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar, combine garlic cloves, lemongrass stalks, and Thai basil leaves.
2. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the garlic mixture, making sure that all the garlic cloves are covered.
4. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
5. Allow the mixture to pickle for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None (pickling time is approximately 14 days)
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy pickled garlic recipes! From sweet and spicy to smoky chipotle, there’s something for every flavor lover. Try Spicy Honey Pickled Garlic, Quick Pickled Garlic with Chili Flakes, or Szechuan-Style Pickled Garlic for a bold kick. Or, opt for more unique flavors like Korean Gochujang Pickled Garlic or Thai-Inspired Pickled Garlic with Bird’s Eye Chili. Whether you’re looking to add zing to your salads, sandwiches, or sauces, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
