How to Make Pickled Kiwi: A Sweet and Tangy Treat

Pickled kiwi? Yes, you read that right! This unexpected treat is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly tart flavors. While pickling is often associated with cucumbers and other vegetables, fruit pickles are a delicious way to add a burst of unexpected flavor to your meals. This easy pickled kiwi recipe will walk you through the simple steps to create your own jar of this unique and delicious condiment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb firm, but ripe kiwi fruits
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice berries
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Tools of the Trade

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Medium saucepan
• 1 pint-sized sterilized jar with lid

Pickled Kiwi Ingredients

Step-by-Step Pickling Process

1. Prepare the Kiwi: Peel the kiwi fruits and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If you prefer a softer pickle, you can cut the kiwi into chunks.

2. Create the Brine: In your saucepan, combine the white vinegar, sugar, water, peppercorns, allspice berries, salt, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Pack the Jar: Carefully pack the sliced kiwi into your sterilized jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.

4. Pour the Brine: Pour the hot brine over the kiwi slices, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave that same 1/2 inch of space at the top.

5. Seal and Store: Seal the jar tightly with the lid and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store your pickled kiwi in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before enjoying. The flavor will continue to develop over time.

Pouring Kiwi Pickle Brine

Tips and Tricks for Pickling Success

• Choosing Your Kiwi: Opt for firm, slightly underripe kiwi fruits for the best texture. Overripe kiwi can become mushy during the pickling process.

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to get creative with the spices! Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or a few slices of ginger for a unique twist.

• Storage: Properly stored pickled kiwi can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Presentation and Serving

Pickled kiwi adds a burst of unexpected flavor and color to a cheese board. Its tangy sweetness pairs well with creamy cheeses like brie and goat cheese. You can also serve them alongside grilled meats or fish for a sweet and savory contrast, or chop them up and add them to salads for a tangy kick.

Pickled Kiwi Serving Suggestion

Go Explore the World of Pickling

Pickled kiwi is a testament to the versatility and creativity of pickling. I encourage you to experiment with different flavor combinations and explore the world of pickled fruits. If you’re interested in exploring other pickling recipes, check out our guide on How to Make Galbi Sauce, a Korean BBQ marinade that incorporates the magic of fermentation.

Don’t forget to share your pickling adventures with us in the comments below! What are your favorite flavor combinations?