Description
Pickled Frog Balls is a unique delicacy featuring tender frog balls preserved in a tangy, flavorful vinegar brine infused with spices like mustard seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, and garlic. This recipe combines pickling techniques to create a dish perfect as an adventurous appetizer or snack, offering a balance of acidity, subtle sweetness, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Frog Balls
- Fresh frog balls (cleaned and prepared) – approximately 1 pound
Pickling Brine
- Vinegar – 1 cup (white or cider vinegar)
- Water – 1 cup
- Sugar – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Peppercorns – 1 teaspoon
- Bay leaves – 2 leaves
- Garlic cloves – 2 to 3, whole or smashed
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as dill or thyme) – a few sprigs
Instructions
- Prepare the Frog Balls: Start by thoroughly cleaning the frog balls under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once well rinsed, pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside. Proper cleaning ensures the final texture remains firm yet tender after pickling.
- Make the Pickling Brine: In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt completely. When boiling, add the mustard seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, and garlic cloves. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the brine fully.
- Assemble the Jars: Place the cleaned frog balls neatly into sterilized glass jars. If using fresh herbs, layer them evenly among the frog balls for added aroma and flavor. Pour the hot pickling brine over the frog balls, ensuring they are fully submerged to prevent spoilage.
- Seal and Store: Seal the jars tightly with sterilized lids and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the jars in the refrigerator and allow the pickled frog balls to marinate for at least 48 hours. This resting time develops the characteristic tangy flavor and tender texture.
Notes
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent contamination during pickling.
- The pickled frog balls can be stored refrigerated for up to two weeks.
- Adjust sugar amount depending on desired sweetness level.
- Adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme is optional but enhances flavor complexity.
- Consume within recommended timeframe for best taste and safety.
