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Quick Refrigerator Pickled Carrots

Close-up of bright orange, julienned pickled carrots filling a glass mason jar, catching sunlight.

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Make crisp, tangy pickled carrots fast using this simple refrigerator method. These crunchy pickles require minimal ingredients and no canning, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and thinly sliced or cut into matchsticks
  • 1 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • Optional additions: 1 clove garlic, smashed; 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns; 1 thin slice jalapeño

Instructions

  1. Prepare the carrots: Peel the carrots and slice them thinly or cut them into matchsticks. Aim for uniform thickness for even pickling.
  2. Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt completely dissolve. Do not boil.
  3. Add flavorings (optional): If using, place the garlic, peppercorns, and jalapeño slice into a clean, pint-sized glass jar.
  4. Pack the jar: Place the prepared carrots tightly into the jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
  5. Pour the brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the carrots, making sure they are completely submerged. Tap the jar gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
  6. Cool and chill: Let the jar cool on the counter for about 30 minutes. Once cool, seal the jar with a lid and transfer it to the refrigerator.
  7. Wait to eat: The carrots will be ready to eat after at least 2 hours, but the flavor improves after 24 hours. They maintain crunch for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons.
  • For a dill flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dill seed to the brine mixture before heating.
  • These are refrigerator pickles and must be stored in the fridge; they are not shelf-stable.
  • For Vietnamese style, add 1/4 cup of thinly sliced daikon radish to the jar with the carrots.

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