Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb medium-thin asparagus
  • 1 cup champagne vinegar (or other white wine vinegar)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coriander seed
  • 1/4 teaspoon fennel seed
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf

Method

  • Trim asparagus by snapping off the tough bottoms.
  • Combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices in a small saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
  • Place the asparagus in a small nonreactive dish.
  • Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus.
  • Allow the asparagus to cool, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
  • Pickled asparagus will keep, covered, for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
  • Used as garnish for Bloody Mary.