Emulsifier Free Ginger-Lime Quick-Pickled Vegetable Medley
Bright, tangy, and loaded with crunch, this quick-pickled medley brings together daikon, carrot, cucumber, and red cabbage in a brine that's as vibrant as it looks. Fresh ginger and lime zest give the pickling liquid a lively kick, while a touch of honey and turmeric round everything out with warmth and color. Because the brine is made entirely from scratch — apple cider vinegar, water, honey, and whole spices — there's no need to reach for a store-bought shortcut that might sneak in unwanted additives. Emulsifiers are common in processed condiments and packaged pickles, so making your own is genuinely the cleanest route to a jar you can feel good about. Salting the vegetables first draws out excess moisture, which means the brine penetrates faster and the final result is properly pickled rather than just dressed. It works beautifully as a topping for grain bowls, tacos, or noodle dishes, and the leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to five days — getting better as they sit.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
For the vegetables
- 1 cup daikon radish, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
- 1 cup carrot, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
- 1 cup english cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, very thinly sliced
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
For the brine
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
- 1 tsp lime zest (from about 1 lime)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the daikon, carrot, cucumber, and red cabbage in a large heatproof bowl. Sprinkle with the fine sea salt, toss well, and let stand for 10 minutes until the vegetables begin to release a little liquid.
- 2
While the vegetables rest, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, honey, grated ginger, lime zest, lime juice, and turmeric in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from the heat.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!