Ingredients:

  • 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), deseeded and sliced into 1/4-inch strips
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1 cup filtered water
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

  1. Prep the peppers: Slice the bell peppers into 1/4 inch strips until you have a pile of vibrant ribbons.
  2. Slice the onion: Cut the red onion into very thin half moons so they soften quickly in the jar.
  3. Pack the jars: Stuff the pepper and onion strips into your clean glass jars, alternating colors.
  4. Add aromatics: Drop the smashed garlic, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes directly into the jars.
  5. Mix the brine: Combine the apple cider vinegar, water, honey, and sea salt in your saucepan.
  6. Heat the liquid: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat until the honey and salt have completely dissolved.
  7. Pour the brine: Carefully ladle the hot liquid over the peppers until they are fully submerged.
  8. Remove air bubbles: Gently tap the jar on the counter or use a butter knife to release any trapped air.
  9. Seal and cool: Tighten the lids and let the jars sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  10. Chill and set: Place the jars in the fridge for at least 1 hour until the liquid is cold and the flavors have melded.