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Sweet and Sour Pickles

These homemade sweet and sour pickles offer a vibrant, tangy crunch that shop-bought varieties simply cannot match. This vegan condiment features thinly sliced yellow squash steeped in a fennel-scented brine of star anise, cloves and mustard seeds. The combination of apple cider vinegar and rich brown sugar creates a sophisticated balance of acidity and sweetness, making it a versatile addition to any larder.

Serve these golden slices alongside grilled halloumi, tucked into sandwiches, or as part of a colourful summer salad. Because the squash retains its firm texture while absorbing the aromatic spices, it serves as a refreshing palate cleanser for rich dishes. This simple preserving method is an excellent way to use up a seasonal glut of summer squash or courgettes.

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Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Pickles

  • 475ml apple cider vinegar

  • 120ml (packed) brown sugar

  • 10 whole cloves

  • 3 whole star anise pods

  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon dried mustard powder

  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds

  • 1/2 teaspoons black peppercorns

  • 2 medium yellow squash (about 230g ), thinly sliced crosswise

How to make Sweet and Sour Pickles

Bring vinegar, brown sugar, cloves, star anise, salt, mustard powder, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and 475ml water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10 minutes.

Place squash in a heatproof resealable container or jar (divide among several containers if necessary). Pour hot brining liquid over squash. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and chill at least 2 hours before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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