Classic Piccalilli Recipe

Ratings

(25)

Total: 24 hrs 40 mins
Prep: 24 hrs
Cook: 40 mins
Yield: 2-3 jars

Despite Piccalilli being one of Britain's favorite pickles, it is surprising that its origins, or the original Piccalilli recipe, remain something of a mystery. There's no doubt it is connected to the Indian sub-continent; some sources say Piccalilli was also known as Indian Pickle, and the Indian pickle Achar is similar also made with mustard, vinegar, and salt and shares the same yellow color.
Whatever its origins it's a British food favorite and no cooked ham, cold beef, Ploughman's lunch or buffet table is complete without a bight yellow dollop. It is easy to make and will keep for several months in sealed jars.

For the Brine
4 1/2 ounces table salt
3 1/2 pints water (cold)
10 1/2 ounces cauliflower florets
8 ounces pearl onions (peeled)
8 ounces cucumber (de-seeded and cut into large chunks)
2 teaspoons capers (in brine, drained and well-rinsed)
For the Spiced Vinegar
7 fluid ounces dark malt vinegar
7 fluid ounces white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon pickling spices
2 ounces caster sugar
For the Pickling
2 ounces butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons turmeric
1 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
Black pepper (to taste)

Note: while there are multiple steps to this recipe, this Piccalilli dish is broken down into workable categories to help you better plan for preparation and pickling.

Make the Brine

Gather the ingredients.

The Spruce
In a bowl large enough to hold the water and all the vegetables, dissolve the salt in the water.

The Spruce
Add all the vegetables and capers.

The Spruce
Put a plate on the vegetables to make sure they stayed submerged in the brine.

The Spruce
Cover and keep in the fridge for 24 hours.

Make the Spiced Vinegar

Gather the ingredients.

The Spruce
Place the two vinegars, pickling spice, and sugar into a large stainless steel pan and bring to the boil.

The Spruce
Reduce the heat and cook for 15 minutes.

The Spruce
Leave to cool overnight in the fridge.

Pickle the Vegetables

Gather the ingredients.

The Spruce
The next day, remove the brine and vegetables from the fridge; drain and rinse the vegetables well.

The Spruce
Place the rinsed vegetables into a pan, cover with cold water, then bring to the boil.

The Spruce
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

The Spruce
Drain and leave to one side.

The Spruce
In another pan, melt the butter, then add the flour and stir thoroughly.

The Spruce
Cook gently for 5 minutes taking care not to burn the flour.

The Spruce
Strain the spiced vinegar and slowly add to the butter and flour, cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until thickened.

The Spruce
Add the turmeric, mustard powder, and black pepper and stir well. You should now have a brightly colored, thick sauce.

The Spruce
Pour the thick sauce over the drained vegetables and stir well making sure all the vegetables are coated in the sauce.

The Spruce
Pour into sterilized jars and seal.

The Spruce
Keep for at least one week before opening (preferably longer but the temptation to try it may be too strong).

The Spruce

Kitchen Notes
Once opened the jars must be kept in the refrigerator, unopened the jars will keep for at least six months in a dark, cool place.