Description
Authentic Mexican Pickled Carrots are a flavorful and spicy side dish made by sautéing carrots, onions, jalapeños, and garlic before soaking them in a tangy vinegar brine infused with oregano, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Perfectly balanced with heat and acidity, this recipe is a vibrant addition to tacos, grilled meats, or enjoyed as a zesty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium white onion, sliced
- 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
Pickling Brine
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and slice the carrots into 1/4-inch rounds. Slice the white onion, jalapeños (removing seeds if less heat is desired), and garlic cloves.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften slightly. Add the sliced onion, jalapeños, and garlic and continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Make the Pickling Brine: In a separate saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, salt, dried oregano, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil to fully dissolve the salt and release the aromas of the spices.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the hot vinegar brine over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer together on low heat for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the skillet from heat and let the pickled vegetables cool to room temperature. Transfer them to a glass jar or airtight container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to develop the best flavor before serving.
Notes
- These pickled carrots develop a deeper flavor and improve after sitting in the fridge for one to two days.
- Ideal accompaniment for tacos, tortas, grilled meats, or to enjoy as a spicy snack.
- Adjust the quantity of jalapeños to customize the heat level, or add serrano peppers for more spice.
