Ingredients:

  • 2 cups filtered water
  • 1 cup white distilled vinegar
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tbsp whole black peppercorns
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard seeds
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions:

  1. Combine the filtered water, white distilled vinegar, kosher salt, and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat; whisk constantly until the salt and sugar have completely dissolved.
  2. Stir in the smashed garlic, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, ensuring it does not reach a rolling boil.
  4. Remove from heat and pour the brine through a fine-mesh strainer into glass storage jars.
  5. Allow the brine to cool to room temperature before adding it to vegetables.