Ingredients:
- 4 cups (950g) mixed fresh vegetables (carrots, cauliflower, red onion, cucumbers, and radishes)
- 1 tsp (6g) sea salt
- 1 cup (240ml) rice vinegar
- 1 cup (240ml) filtered water
- 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup
- 1 tbsp (18g) sea salt
- 1 tsp (2g) black peppercorns
- 2 cloves (6g) garlic, smashed
Instructions:
- Slice the mixed vegetables into thin rounds or matchsticks (julienne) to ensure consistent brine penetration.
- Optional: Toss high-water vegetables like cucumbers or zucchini with 1 tsp sea salt, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- Tightly pack the prepared vegetables into clean glass jars, leaving approximately half an inch of headspace.
- In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, water, maple syrup, salt, peppercorns, and smashed garlic.
- Heat the brine over medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve salt and syrup.
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed vegetables until they are completely submerged.
- Gently tap the jar on the counter or use a butter knife to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Seal the jars with lids, let sit at room temperature until cool, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.