Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe – Hungarian Chef

by Rebecca Novak published on October 4, 2024

Imagine serving your loved ones a beautiful dish of mustard green bean pickles while beefing up your holiday feast. They are not just a palate-pleaser, but can elevate any meal. Pair these pickles with roasted meats, hearty vegan dishes, or even a simple pasta salad, and you’ve got a winning combination. Just think about the crunchiness of a fresh salad contrasted with flavorful roasted chicken or the richness of a creamy pasta dish. You can’t go wrong!

Best Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe

Have you ever craved something bold and unique to liven up your dinner table? If so, you might want to try mustard green bean pickles. This recipe stands out not just for its taste, but for its versatility. As a registered dietitian and passionate food blogger, I’ve explored many culinary directions, but the simplicity and zing of this dish have made it a go-to for both casual and festive gatherings.

Making your own pickles doesn’t just allow you to control the flavor but also gives you the joy of crafting something delightful from scratch. In a world of pre-packaged everything, creating mustard green bean pickles becomes a form of culinary creativity. You’ll feel like a food artisan, dressing your meals with something uniquely yours.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this deliciousness!

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Why This Recipe Works

1. Fresh Ingredients: The use of crisp runner beans ensures a satisfying crunch. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a host of nutritional benefits, including high fiber content and valuable vitamins.

2. Flavorful Balance: The blend of mustard, vinegar, and spices creates a tangy, savory flavor. This combination stimulates your taste buds, making the pickles not just a side dish but an engaging experience.

3. Simple Process: With straightforward steps, anyone can recreate this dish in their kitchen. No need for specialized skills—just basic culinary techniques.

4. Versatility in Use: You can incorporate these pickles in various dishes. They add a kick to salads, become a flavorful sandwich topping, or serve as a tantalizing hors d’oeuvre on their own.

This recipe is about creating something memorable and using ingredients that are often overlooked. It’s a celebration of flavors and creativity.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine a burst of flavor as the tangy mustard and sweetness of sugar dance on your palate, supported by the crunch of the green beans. The punch from the mustard powder and the slight warmth of turmeric contrast in a way that makes you reach for another bite. 

As the vinegar seeps into the beans, the zing factor kicks up a notch, making these pickles suitable for any dish. You’ll find that each mouthful captures summer’s brightness, reminding you that simple ingredients can yield sophisticated results.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Variations?

Many mustard green bean pickle recipes can be found, but this one brings a special twist. The combination of smoked paprika adds depth—enhancing the traditional flavors. 

The inclusion of both light muscovado sugar and golden caster sugar creates a multi-layered sweetness that is unique. Additionally, fresh chopped dill brings an aromatic freshness that you won’t always find in other variants. It’s like finding a hidden gem in a sea of ordinary pickles!

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delightful pickles:

  • 1 kg Runner Beans: Freshness is key; aim for vibrant, firm beans.
  • 600 g Diced Onions: Adds a fantastic savory depth.
  • 850 ml Pickling Vinegar: Essential for the pickling process.
  • 40 g All-purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the brine.
  • 57 g English Mustard Powder: The star ingredient!
  • 2 tbsp Ground Turmeric: Offers color and a hint of earthiness.
  • 2 tbsp Celery Salt: Provides a pleasant, salty flavor.
  • 225 g Light Muscovado Sugar: Adds deep sweetness.
  • 450 g Golden Caster Sugar: Standard sweetness; helps balance flavors.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: That subtle smoky note.
  • 2 tbsp Black Mustard Seeds: For texture and a little bite.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Chopped Dill: Brightens up the final product.
Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Beans and Onions

  • Trim and wash the runner beans. Cut them into even-sized pieces, about two inches long.
  • In a large bowl, combine the beans with the diced onions. A little sprinkle of salt over them allows moisture to come out, softening their sharpness.

Step 2: Creating the Brine

  • In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, flour, mustard powder, turmeric, celery salt, both sugars, smoked paprika, and black mustard seeds.
  • Heat gently while stirring. Use a whisk to combine until bubbly and well blended. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Blanching the Vegetables

  • Bring a pot of water to a rapid boil.
  • Quickly blanch the beans and onion mixture for about 3 minutes, then drain them. This step softens them while keeping that satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Jarring the Pickles

  • Pack the hot beans and onions into sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over them, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  • Seal the jars tightly while they steam.

Step 5: Cooling and Storing

  • Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate them.
  • Let them sit for at least 48 hours to absorb all those fabulous flavors.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to consider:

  • Use Fresh Produce: The quality of your beans greatly influences the end product. Opt for the freshest ones you can find.
  • Vinegar Variety: If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar instead.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices, adding more heat or complexity based on your preferences.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you like your pickles more tangy, reduce the amount of sugar.
  • Maintain Hygiene: Ensure all your jars are sterilized before filling them to ensure longevity.
Easy Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe

Nutrition Information

How Do You Store This Mustard Green Bean Pickle?

Store your pickles in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them refrigerated. Ideally, consume them within three months. They make lasting, vibrant companions to countless meals.

Sides for Mustard Green Bean Pickle

Here are some perfect side dishes to serve alongside your pickles:

1. Grilled Chicken:
A simple piece of grilled chicken pairs exceptionally well with the tangy pickles. The acid in the pickles complements the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.

2. Quinoa Salad:
A protein-packed grain salad adds texture and balance to the meal. Toss quinoa with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta for a refreshing addition.

3. Roasted Veggies:
Consider serving alongside a platter of roasted vegetables. The caramelized flavors add depth, while the pickles introduce a necessary zing.

Alternatives for Ingredients

If you’re running low on certain ingredients, here are some swaps:

1. Vinegar:
If you don’t have pickling vinegar, use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as an alternative. They provide excellent acidity.

2. Mustard Powder:
If English mustard powder is unavailable, dried mustard can work in a pinch. Just adjust the quantity to taste.

3. Fresh Dill:
No fresh dill? Use fennel fronds for a similar anise-like freshness. Alternatively, dried dill works, but the flavor will be less vibrant.

4. Beans:
If runner beans are scarce, green beans or even asparagus can serve as excellent substitutes while maintaining that crunchiness.

Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe

Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe

Have you ever craved something bold and unique to liven up your dinner table? If so, you might want to try mustard green bean pickles. 
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Mustard Green Bean Pickle Recipe
Servings: jar
Calories: 33kcal
Author: Rebecca Novak

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • 1 kg runner beans
  • 600 g diced onions
  • 850 ml or 1½ pints pickling vinegar
  • 40 g 1½ oz all-purpose flour
  • 57 g tin of English mustard powder
  • 2 tbsp ground turmeric
  • 2 tbsp celery salt
  • 225 g light muscovado sugar
  • 450 g golden caster sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp black mustard seeds
  • 1 tbsp fresh chopped dill

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Beans and Onions

  • Trim and wash the runner beans. Cut them into even-sized pieces, about two inches long.
  • In a large bowl, combine the beans with the diced onions. A little sprinkle of salt over them allows moisture to come out, softening their sharpness.

Step 2: Creating the Brine

  • In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, flour, mustard powder, turmeric, celery salt, both sugars, smoked paprika, and black mustard seeds.
  • Heat gently while stirring. Use a whisk to combine until bubbly and well blended. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Blanching the Vegetables

  • Bring a pot of water to a rapid boil.
  • Quickly blanch the beans and onion mixture for about 3 minutes, then drain them. This step softens them while keeping that satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Jarring the Pickles

  • Pack the hot beans and onions into sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over them, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  • Seal the jars tightly while they steam.

Step 5: Cooling and Storing

  • Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate them.
  • Let them sit for at least 48 hours to absorb all those fabulous flavors.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to consider:
  • Use Fresh Produce: The quality of your beans greatly influences the end product. Opt for the freshest ones you can find.
  • Vinegar Variety: If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar instead.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices, adding more heat or complexity based on your preferences.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you like your pickles more tangy, reduce the amount of sugar.
  • Maintain Hygiene: Ensure all your jars are sterilized before filling them to ensure longevity.

Nutrition

Calories: 33kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make mustard green bean pickles in advance?

Absolutely! These pickles need time to develop flavors. Making them a week in advance is ideal.

2. Do I need to can these pickles to keep them?

No canning is necessary if you plan to eat them within a few months. Just refrigerate after sealing.

3. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in sliced carrots, cauliflower florets, or even bell pepper slices for added variety.

4. How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe has a mild heat level. If you enjoy spicier food, consider adding red pepper flakes or a spicier mustard variety in your brine.

Conclusion

Crafting mustard green bean pickles is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a way to enhance your meals with rich flavors and vibrant colors. With straightforward steps and a few key ingredients, you’re on your way to creating something delicious and memorable.

So grab your ingredients and transform those simple green beans into a dish that dazzles. The world of pickling is waiting for you—with all its tangy, crunchy glory. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at green beans the same way again. Happy pickling!

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Author Profile
Rebecca Novak, Registered Dietitian & Chef

Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more

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