If you're looking to spice up your snack game or add a zingy touch to your salads, these Sweet & Spicy Pickled Eggs are just what you need. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they provide a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
The key to these pickled eggs lies in the balance of flavors. Eggs form the canvas, absorbing the sweet and spicy notes of the brine. Apple cider vinegar not only acts as a preservative but also adds a mild tang. Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. Salt enhances all the flavors, while red pepper flakes inject a bit of heat to keep things interesting. Black peppercorns add a touch of earthiness, and garlic brings in a savory depth. Bay leaf gives a subtle aromatic nuance, and the beet slices are responsible for the vibrant color and a hint of earthiness.
Sweet & Spicy Pickled Eggs are a versatile addition to many dishes. Slice them up for a vibrant salad topping or serve them as part of an appetizer platter with cured meats and cheeses. They also make a delightful snack on their own, especially with a cold beer.
Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover them with water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let the eggs stand for 12 minutes. This method ensures perfectly hard-boiled eggs without overcooking.
While the eggs are resting, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl. After the 12 minutes are up, drain the hot water from the saucepan and transfer the eggs into the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling them a breeze.
Once cool, peel your eggs and set them aside. Now, let's make the pickling liquid. In a different saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, garlic slices, bay leaf, and beet slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt completely.
After a few minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This will ensure that when you pour it over the eggs, it won't cook them further. Place the peeled eggs in a clean jar or container, ensuring it's large enough to hold both the eggs and the brine.
Pour the slightly cooled pickling liquid over the eggs, making sure they're fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and pop it into the fridge. The hardest part is waiting — let the eggs marinate for at least 24 hours before diving in. This allows the flavors to fully develop and permeate the eggs.
Share