Frog Balls (Pickled Brussels Sprouts)

Why make this recipe

Frog Balls, or pickled Brussels sprouts, are a fun and unique addition to any meal. They offer a tangy and crunchy bite that can enhance your salads, sandwiches, or serve as a side dish. Moreover, pickling is a great way to preserve vegetables, and these Brussels sprouts can last for weeks in the fridge. The vibrant flavors from the garlic, dill, and spices make them not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are easy to make and can impress friends and family at parties.

How to make Frog Balls

Ingredients:

• Brussels sprouts
• Water
• White vinegar
• Salt
• Sugar
• Garlic cloves
• Black peppercorns
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh dill

Directions:

1. Begin by cleaning the Brussels sprouts and trimming the ends.
2. In a pot, combine water, white vinegar, salt, and sugar; bring it to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add the Brussels sprouts to the pot and cook for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. In a clean jar, layer garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and fresh dill.
5. Pack the cooked Brussels sprouts tightly into the jar.
6. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are fully submerged.
7. Let cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

How to serve Frog Balls

Frog Balls can be served straight from the jar as a snack or appetizer. They pair well with cheeses, crackers, and meats on a charcuterie board. You can also add them to salads for an extra crunch or chop them up to mix into grain bowls or pasta dishes. Their vibrant color and zesty flavor will make any dish more appealing.

How to store Frog Balls

Store your Frog Balls in the refrigerator. They can last up to a month when kept sealed in their jar. Make sure they are fully submerged in the pickling liquid to help preserve their crunch and flavor.

Tips to make Frog Balls

• Choose small Brussels sprouts for a better pickling result.
• Adjust the level of red pepper flakes depending on how spicy you want your pickles.
• Allow them to pickle for at least 48 hours for a stronger flavor.
• Experiment with additional spices like mustard seeds or coriander for a unique taste.

Variation

You can experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano instead of dill. Adding a touch of honey instead of sugar can also give them a sweeter taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal crunch and flavor. Frozen sprouts may lose some texture during the pickling process.

How long do pickled Brussels sprouts last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last for up to a month.

Can I eat them right after making them?
Yes, but for the best flavor, it’s recommended to let them sit for at least 24 hours to absorb the pickling liquid.

Frog Balls

Frog Balls, or pickled Brussels sprouts, are a tangy and crunchy addition to meals, perfect for snacks or sides and easy to make at home.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 day d

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 50

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pickling

• 1 cup Water
• 1 cup White vinegar
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Sugar
• 4 cloves Garlic cloves
• 1 tsp Black peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup Fresh dill

For the Main Ingredient

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts

Method

 

Preparation

1. Clean the Brussels sprouts and trim the ends.

Cooking

1. In a pot, combine water, white vinegar, salt, and sugar; bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, add the Brussels sprouts to the pot and cook for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.

Packing

1. In a clean jar, layer garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and fresh dill.
2. Pack the cooked Brussels sprouts tightly into the jar.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Storage

1. Let cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Notes

Choose small Brussels sprouts for a better pickling result. Adjust the level of red pepper flakes depending on taste. Allow them to pickle for at least 48 hours for a stronger flavor. Experiment with other spices like mustard seeds or coriander.