how to pickle banana peppers like subway

3 min read 14-01-2025

how to pickle banana peppers like subway

Meta Description: Learn how to make crunchy, tangy banana peppers just like Subway's! This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step recipe and tips for perfectly pickled peppers. Get ready to elevate your sandwiches and snacks! (158 characters)

Subway's signature banana peppers are a beloved addition to many sandwiches. That signature crunch and tangy sweetness are surprisingly easy to replicate at home. This guide will walk you through the process of making your own batch of Subway-style pickled banana peppers.

What You'll Need:

Ingredients:

2 pounds fresh banana peppers
2 cups white vinegar
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons salt (kosher or pickling salt preferred)
1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
1 tablespoon celery seeds
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
2 cloves garlic, smashed

Equipment:

Large pot
Jars (pint-sized are ideal, sterilized)
Jar lifter (optional, but helpful)
Canner (optional, for longer shelf life)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers:

Wash the banana peppers thoroughly. Remove stems and slice them into rings, about 1/4 inch thick. You can adjust the thickness based on your preference. Thinner slices will pickle faster.

2. Make the Brine:

In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

3. Add Spices and Peppers:

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the mustard seeds, celery seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and smashed garlic cloves to the simmering brine. Gently stir in the sliced banana peppers. Make sure the peppers are submerged in the brine.

4. Simmer the Peppers:

Let the peppers simmer gently in the brine for about 10 minutes. This helps them soften slightly and absorb the flavor. Don't boil vigorously; a gentle simmer is key to maintaining their crispness.

5. Pack the Jars:

Carefully remove the peppers from the brine using a slotted spoon. Pack them tightly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.

6. Pour the Brine:

Pour the hot brine over the peppers in the jars, again leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Use a clean spoon or chopstick to remove any air bubbles.

7. Seal the Jars:

Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth. Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten them securely, but not too tightly.

8. Process the Jars (Optional):

For longer shelf life, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes. This creates a vacuum seal. If you skip this step, store your pickled peppers in the refrigerator and consume them within 2-3 weeks.

9. Cool and Enjoy:

Allow the jars to cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the lids seal. Store the jars in a cool, dark place if you canned them. If not, refrigerate immediately. Your homemade Subway-style banana peppers are ready to enjoy! They'll be even tastier after a few days as the flavors meld.

Tips for Success:

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of your pickles.
Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for preventing spoilage. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Don't overpack the jars: Leaving enough headspace is important for proper sealing.
Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
Experiment with other spices: Add other spices like dill, black peppercorns, or coriander seeds for a unique flavor profile.

With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the satisfying crunch and tang of Subway-style banana peppers anytime! They’re perfect for sandwiches, salads, tacos, or even just as a tasty snack. Enjoy!