Make crunchy, tangy Mexican pickled carrots fast using this simple refrigerator method. This recipe requires no canning and delivers maximum flavor for tacos or snacks in under an hour of active time.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:2 hours 20 min
Yield:About 1 pint1x
Category:Condiment
Method:Refrigerator Pickling
Cuisine:Mexican Inspired
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks or thin rounds
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1–2 jalapeƱos, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Prepare your carrots by cutting them into uniform matchsticks or thin rounds. Place the prepared carrots, sliced garlic, and sliced jalapeƱos (if using) into a clean, pint-sized mason jar or heat-safe container.
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. This creates your simple brine.
Remove the brine from the heat. Stir in the dried oregano.
Carefully pour the hot brine over the carrots in the jar, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
Let the jar cool on the counter for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, seal the jar and transfer it to the refrigerator.
For the best flavor and crunch, allow the carrots to chill for at least 2 hours before serving. They are ready to use as a topping for tacos or as a snack.
Notes
For maximum crunchiness, ensure your brine is boiling hot when you pour it over the carrots.
These refrigerator pickled carrots stay crisp for up to 3 weeks in the fridge.
If you prefer a less spicy result, remove the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeƱos before slicing.