Monster Bites (Pickled Mushrooms)

Ingredients:

1 lb whole button mushrooms

1 cup white vinegar

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

3 cloves garlic, smashed

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

Clean the whole button mushrooms thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends of the stems if needed. Lightly score the tops of the mushrooms with a small knife to help them absorb the brine.

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mushrooms and blanch them for 5 minutes. This softens them slightly while keeping their structure intact.

Drain the mushrooms in a colander and allow them to cool slightly.

Place the blanched mushrooms into a clean, sterilized jar. Add the smashed garlic cloves, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, and dried oregano or thyme evenly throughout the jar.

In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer.

Carefully pour the hot brine over the mushrooms in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the brine. Allow the jar to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, seal tightly with a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes

Kcal: 45 | Servings: 6