Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large bunch celery (about 8–10 stalks), washed and cut into 3-inch sticks
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup filtered water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Instructions
- Step 1: Sterilize a quart-sized jar or two pint-sized jars by washing them thoroughly in hot, soapy water, or running them through a dishwasher cycle. Wash and trim the celery sticks, ensuring they are cut to fit vertically inside the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Step 2: Combine the vinegar, water, kosher salt, and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. Remove the brine from the heat immediately.
- Step 3: Distribute the garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, and black peppercorns evenly into the bottom of the prepared jars. Tightly pack the celery sticks vertically into the jars, ensuring a snug fit.
- Step 4: Carefully pour the hot brine mixture over the packed celery and spices, ensuring that the liquid fully covers the celery sticks and still leaves at least 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
- Step 5: Tap the jars gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Seal the jars tightly with the lids and let them cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator.
- Step 6: Allow the celery to pickle in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before serving for optimal spicy flavor and crunch. The pickled celery will keep refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
- For maximum depth of flavor, try to resist sampling the celery until it has been refrigerated for at least one full week—the wait is worth the developed spice and vinegar punch.
- These spicy sticks are the ultimate Bloody Mary garnish, but they also cut through the richness beautifully when served alongside hearty sandwiches or a creamy cheese board.
- To guarantee the crispiest sticks, place the cut celery pieces in a bowl of ice water for 30 minutes before packing them into the jars; this quick ice bath ensures maximum crunch retention.
- If you prefer a milder kick, halve the red pepper flakes but always keep the whole black peppercorns, as they contribute essential aromatic depth, not just heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American