When we talk about pickles, we often think of their unique sour and salty taste and perfect pairing with a variety of dishes. The salty and sour taste of pickles not only adds depth to the dish, but also helps to stimulate the appetite, making it an indispensable dish on the table in many families. And to make delicious pickles, the pickling method is crucial.
The traditional pickle pickling method usually involves the following steps: First, choose fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, white radish, kimchi, etc. as raw materials. Then, the vegetables are washed, peeled or sliced, and the seeds are removed according to taste preference. Next, sprinkle the pickling salt evenly over the vegetables to allow them to penetrate and release the water. The pickled vegetables are then placed in an airtight container, with an appropriate amount of brine or sauce, left for a few days to weeks, and allowed to ferment before eating.
In addition to the traditional way of pickling, different regions and cultures have also developed a variety of unique ways to make pickles. For example, Chinese pickles are marinated using seasonings such as soybean paste or soy sauce to give the vegetables a rich flavor. In Japan, salt or seaweed is often used to make fermented juices, and kelp or other seafood is added to make pickles more seafood-like. Korean kimchi uses spicy seasonings such as pickled pepper powder to create a unique spicy flavor.
To make delicious pickles, some skill and experience is very important. First and foremost, choosing fresh, pest-free vegetables is the key to success. Secondly, the amount of salt and the pickling time should be controlled during the pickling process, and different vegetables need different treatment methods. At the same time, keeping the pickling container clean and airtight can also affect the quality and taste of the pickles.
Pickles can be used not only as a stand-alone dish, but also in many dishes. In stir-fry, adding pickles can add layers and umami to the dishAdding pickles to soups can enhance the taste and nutritional value of the soup. In addition, pickles can also be used as a snack or side dish to add flavor to rice or porridge foods.