What is mixed pickling spice?
Mixed pickling spice is a blend of whole spices used to flavor pickled vegetables, meats, relishes and chutneys. It typically contains spices like mustard seeds, coriander, allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger root, mace, bay leaves and black peppercorns. The exact blend can vary between brands, but the general flavor profile is warm, slightly spicy, sweet and aromatic.
Some common questions about mixed pickling spice:
Why is it called “mixed” pickling spice?
It’s called mixed pickling spice because it contains a mixture of different spices, as opposed to a single spice like mustard seed or coriander. The blend of spices gives picked foods a more complex, layered flavor than using just one spice.
Where can I buy mixed pickling spice?
Mixed pickling spice can be found in the spice section of most grocery stores, often near canning supplies. Major brands like McCormick and Spice Islands make pre-blended jars of mixed pickling spice. You can also make your own blend at home. Specialty spice shops will also carry mixed pickling spices.
What spices are in mixed pickling spice?
While blends can vary, typical spices in mixed pickling spice include:
- Mustard seeds
- Coriander
- Black peppercorns
- Allspice berries
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Ginger
- Mace
- Bay leaves
The quantities of each spice vary between recipes. Coriander, mustard seeds, cinnamon and allspice tend to be the dominant players.
How to Use Mixed Pickling Spice
There are a few main ways to use mixed pickling spice:
Pickling vegetables and fruits
Adding mixed pickling spice is a classic way to flavor all sorts of pickled produce like cucumbers, carrots, cauliflower, onions, green beans, beets, and fruits like peaches or watermelon rind.
The spice blend is simmered in the pickling liquid before pouring it over the vegetables or fruit. This infuses the pickling brine with flavor. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of mixed pickling spice per quart of brine. You can also add some of the whole spices directly to the jars.
Pickling meats
Mixed pickling spice can be used to make pickled pork, corned beef, sausages and more. Simmer the spice blend in the pickling liquid as you would for vegetables. You can also rub the seasoning directly on meats before cooking or adding to the brine. It gives a nice flavor boost.
Chutneys and relishes
The spices in mixed pickling blend pair perfectly with the sweet and sour flavors of chutneys and relishes. Simply add 1-2 tablespoons per batch while cooking. Allspice, cinnamon, ginger and mustard seeds complement fruit chutneys, while coriander seeds pair well with vegetable relishes.
Simmering in soups and stews
You can simmer a teaspoon or two of mixed pickling spices in brothy soups and stews to infuse them with flavor. Try it in chicken noodle soup, beef stew or vegetable chili. Use a tea ball or sachet to contain the spices for easy removal.
Spice rubs for meat
Making a quick spice rub with mixed pickling spices is an easy way to flavor meats before grilling, roasting or smoking. Use about 1 tablespoon per 1 pound of meat. The blend works well on beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish and tofu.
Marinades and bastes
Stir a teaspoon or more of the spice blend into your favorite marinades and bastes to liven them up. The spices infuse foods with big flavor as they soak or cook. They go well in marinades for meats, chicken, vegetables and even fruit salads.
Potpourri
The fragrant cinnamon sticks, cloves, bay leaves and allspice in mixed pickling spice make it perfect for homemade potpourri. Simmer the spices in water then allow to dry before adding to bowl.
Making Your Own Mixed Pickling Spice
It’s easy to make DIY mixed pickling spice at home. Here are two homemade blend recipes:
Basic Mixed Pickling Spice
| 1/4 cup mustard seeds | 2 Tbsp coriander seeds |
| 2 Tbsp black peppercorns | 4 bay leaves |
| 1 Tbsp allspice berries | 4 cinnamon sticks |
| 1 Tbsp whole cloves | One 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced |
| 2 tsp mace |
Steps:
- Combine all spices in a bowl and stir to blend.
- Transfer to a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. Label and date.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from light for up to 1 year.
Spicy Mixed Pickling Spice
| 1/2 cup mustard seeds | 3 Tbsp coriander seeds |
| 1 Tbsp black peppercorns | 3 bay leaves |
| 2 tsp allspice berries | 3 cinnamon sticks |
| 2 tsp red pepper flakes | 1 Tbsp whole cloves |
| 1 Tbsp mace | One 4-inch piece of ginger, sliced |
Steps:
- Combine all spices in a bowl and stir to blend.
- Transfer to a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. Label and date.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from light for up to 1 year.
Adjust the amounts of each spice to suit your taste preferences. Store the blend in an airtight container away from light.
Pickling Spice Substitutions
If you don’t have mixed pickling spice on hand, here are some spice blend subs you can use:
- Pumpkin pie spice – use 1 to 1 ratio
- Curry powder – use half the amount of mixed pickling spice called for
- Five spice powder – use about 3/4 the amount
- Jamaican jerk seasoning – use 3/4 to 1 ratio
- Cajun seasoning – use 3/4 to 1 ratio
You can also make a quick DIY sub with:
- 1 Tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 Tbsp coriander
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 cinnamon stick
While not exact, these spice blend subs will work when you’re in a pinch.
Pickled Food Safety Tips
When pickling foods at home, be sure to follow these food safety guidelines:
- Use sterile jars and lids, and make sure jars are undamaged.
- Wash all produce thoroughly before pickling.
- Use vinegar with at least 5% acidity, like distilled white vinegar.
- Only use recipes from reputable sources.
- Adjust processing times properly based on altitude.
- Acidify tomatoes before combining with other vegetables.
- Keep everything submerged; weigh down if needed.
- Store pickled foods in the refrigerator after opening.
Following proper procedures will ensure your pickled creations stay safe to enjoy!
Conclusion
Mixed pickling spice is an excellent way to add signature flavor to all kinds of pickled fruits, vegetables, meats and more. Simmer it in brines, add it to jars, use it in rubs or incorporate it into chutneys. With its complex blend of spices like coriander, mustard, cinnamon and ginger, it livens up any pickled recipe. Making your own version at home lets you customize the quantities. And you can use pumpkin pie spice, curry powder or other blends in a pinch. Remember to follow safety guidelines, and enjoy experimenting with this versatile spice blend!