Cast Iron Keto
menu icon
subscribe
search icon
×

Easy Pickled Cauliflower Recipe (Keto Friendly) 🥬

Feyza Kırmacı
by
Updated:
Leave a Comment
Not yet rated

Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

We are continuing our journey to the best, no-sugar fermented recipes! Dive into our keto-friendly Pickled Cauliflower recipe. Are you ready to add some zest to your snack game? Let's start cooking the best pickled cauliflower recipe!

A plate of homemade cauliflower pickles.
Jump to:

Preparation and cooking overview

Begin by cutting the cauliflower into small, even florets. Then, prepare a flavorful brine by gently heating apple cider vinegar, a blend of spices, and your choice of keto-friendly sweetener. Once ready, immerse the cauliflower florets in the brine and allow them to ferment, letting the flavors meld beautifully. It's a game of 20 minutes of preparation time!

Chef's note

Don't hesitate to experiment with extra ingredients in this quick pickled cauliflower recipe. Consider a hint of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of dried oregano for added depth. Try incorporating red onion or cabbage for a splash of color and a distinct taste.

For further creative ideas, explore our extensive collection of side dishes!

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Fermentation Time: 1 day
  • Total Time: 1 day 20 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 3 cups

🥬 Ingredients for pickled cauliflower recipe

Here's a list of all the ingredients you'll need to make this homemade pickled cauliflower:

  • 1 medium-head white cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon pickling salt or sea salt
  • ½ tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • ¼ tablespoon red peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon keto-friendly sweetener
All the ingredients required to make picked cauliflower are arranged and displayed on the table.

Ingredient substitutions

Sometimes, you might not have every item on hand or prefer a different taste. Here are some suggestions to tweak the original ingredients:

  • Keto-friendly sweetener: Choose your preferred sweetener. Options include erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit. Adjust to your liking.
  • Apple cider vinegar: If you don't have apple cider vinegar, any cider or white wine vinegar will do.
  • Mustard seeds: Replace mustard seeds with turmeric; while it won't replicate the mustard flavor, it'll add a unique taste and vibrant color to the pickling brine.
  • Red peppercorns: Reduce their quantity or replace them with crushed red pepper flakes for a less intense flavor.

Additional ingredients

Elevate the flavors of your cauliflower pickle with these keto-friendly ingredients:

  • Fresh dill sprigs: Add three to four fresh dill sprigs before sealing the jar for a herby touch.
  • Lemon slices: Place a couple of lemon slices at the bottom of the jar for a citrusy twist.
  • Bay leaves: Tuck one or two bay leaves into your jar to add a subtle, earthy flavor to the pickles.
  • Sliced jalapeños: If you love heat, add a few slices of jalapeño pepper to spice things up.
  • Fresh ginger slices: For extra flavor, place some ginger slices in the brine mixture while simmering.
  • Smoked paprika: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the brine for a smoky twist on your spicy pickled cauliflower.
A plate showcasing pickled cauliflower next to a jar filled with the same pickles.

Kitchen tools required

To make this simple pickled cauliflower recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Clean jar with a lid or mason jar

Tool substitutes list

  • Saucepan: If you don't have a saucepan, simmer your brine in a deep cast-iron skillet.
Homemade cauliflower pickles served on a plate.

How to make Pickled Cauliflower: step-by-step guide

Preparation methods

  • Fermentation

Preparation steps

  1. Wash the cauliflower under running water.
  2. Take three fresh garlic cloves and peel their skin.

Instruction steps

  1. Cut the cauliflower into small florets. 
  2. Combine the sea salt, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, keto-friendly sweetener, salt, mustard seeds, water, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and stir. When the salt and sweetener completely dissolve, turn off the heat.
  4. Arrange the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves neatly in a clean glass jar or an airtight container. Pour the hot brine over the florets. Make sure they're completely immersed.
  5. Close the jar or container. Let it sit at room temperature for a minimum of 24 hours to allow the cauliflower to marinate and achieve its tangy, crunchy profile.

Chef's pro tip

Always pick fresh cauliflower that's bright white and feels solid. Avoid ones with bad spots or a weird smell – they might not be fresh. Cut the cauliflower into pieces about the same size when you're getting it ready. This makes sure every piece tastes just as good after pickling.

What to serve with keto pickled cauliflower?

Pickled cauliflower can be a zesty side for many dishes. Here are some top pairings we suggest:

  • Grilled meats: The pickled cauliflower enhances the flavor profile of grilled meats. You can try it with our Grilled Chicken or Grilled Salmon.
  • Tacos: Spice up your low-carb Keto Tacos by using pickled cauliflower as a filling. It adds a tangy flavor!
  • Greek salad: Mix chopped pickled cauliflower with your favorite vegetables in a Greek Salad. Or, for a twist, use the pickle brine as a dressing.
  • Cheese board: Add the pickle on a Charcuterie Board for a tangy twist.
Keto cauliflower pickles served on a plate.

How to make it healthier?

Here's how you can make this easy pickled cauliflower recipe even healthier: 

  • Reduce the amount of salt in the pickle to keep your salt intake in check.
  • Opt for organic cauliflower and apple cider vinegar.

Time-saving tips

  • Save time by buying pre-cut cauliflower florets from your grocery store.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Wash and cut the cauliflower beforehand and get it ready for the pickling.
  • Clean your glass jar and dry it. Consider sterilizing it by submerging it in hot water for 30 seconds.

Storage instructions

  • Room temperature: Store the cauliflower pickle in an airtight container at room temperature for two days.
  • Fridge: After two days, transfer the cauliflower pickles to the fridge. Refrigerator pickled cauliflower remains fresh for weeks, and the flavors will keep getting better.
A focused picture of pickled cauliflowers served on a plate.

Recipe wrap-up conclusion

If you want to add a tasty twist to your meals, try this keto-friendly Pickled Cauliflower recipe. It's great for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. With this recipe, adding cauliflower to your daily meals is fun and flavorful. Once you've made it, show off your creation on Instagram or Facebook. We're excited to see what you've cooked up!

Also try our other keto side recipes for an enticing experience!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, cauliflower is keto-friendly. It's low in carbs and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for a keto diet.

Yes, pickled cauliflower is keto-friendly, especially if you use a keto-approved sweetener in the brine.

Pickled cauliflower can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

Apple cider vinegar is a great choice due to its mild flavor and potential health benefits. However, you can also use white vinegar for a sharper taste in this simple pickled cauliflower recipe.

Pickled cauliflower does have some carbs, but the amount is minimal, especially if you're using a keto-friendly sweetener.

📖 Recipe

Easy pickled cauliflower served on a yellow oblong tray.

Pickled Cauliflower

This keto-friendly Pickled Cauliflower recipe offers a delightful blend of crunch and tang, making it a delicious and healthy snack choice.
No ratings yet
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Appetizer
Keyword: keto pickle, pickled cauliflower
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Fermentation Time: 1 day
Total Time: 1 day 20 minutes
Servings: 5
Calories: 48kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 medium-head white cauliflower cut into small florets
  • 3 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon pickling salt or sea salt
  • ½ tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • ¼ tablespoon red peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon keto-friendly sweetener
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
  • Combine the sea salt, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, keto-friendly sweetener, salt, mustard seeds, water, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and stir. When the salt and sweetener completely dissolve, turn off the heat.
  • Arrange the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves neatly in a clean glass jar or an airtight container. Pour the hot brine over the florets. Make sure they're completely immersed.
  • Close the jar or container. Let it sit at room temperature for a minimum of 24 hours to allow the cauliflower to marinate and achieve its tangy, crunchy profile.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Pickled Cauliflower
Amount Per Serving
Calories 48 Calories from Fat 9
% Daily Value*
Fat 1g2%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.2g
Sodium 1435mg62%
Potassium 411mg12%
Carbohydrates 10g3%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 9IU0%
Vitamin C 56mg68%
Calcium 42mg4%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

# Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.
«
»

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating