Middle Eastern Pickled Turnips Recipe
Introduction
Middle Eastern pickled turnips are a vibrant and tangy snack that add a burst of flavor to any meal. Crisp and colorful, they are easy to prepare and perfect for serving alongside sandwiches, salads, or grilled dishes.

Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 2 large turnips, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch batons
- 1 small beet, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp peppercorns
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Once it starts to simmer, add the salt and sugar. Stir until both are dissolved.
- Step 2: Add the white vinegar to the saucepan and simmer on medium-low for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside to let the brine cool completely.
- Step 3: In a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, place the turnip batons. Top with the beet chunks, then add the garlic slices and peppercorns.
- Step 4: Pour the cooled brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the jar for 6 days to allow the flavors to develop and the turnips to pickle properly.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, firm turnips for the best crunch and color.
- Add a few dried chili flakes to the jar for a spicy kick.
- If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar by 1 teaspoon.
- Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for extra aroma.
Storage
Store pickled turnips in the refrigerator in an airtight jar. They will keep well for up to 3 weeks. For best flavor, consume within this period and use a clean utensil each time to prevent contamination.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular table salt instead of Kosher salt?
Yes, but reduce the amount slightly as table salt is denser and saltier by volume compared to Kosher salt.
Why is a beet added to the pickled turnips?
The beet adds a natural pink color to the turnips and contributes a subtle earthiness to the flavor.
PrintMiddle Eastern Pickled Turnips Recipe
This Middle Eastern Pickled Turnips recipe offers a vibrant and tangy condiment that complements a variety of dishes. Featuring crunchy turnips and sweet beets soaked in a garlicky vinegar brine, these pickles are easy to make and perfect for adding a flavorful punch to sandwiches, salads, and Mediterranean meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 6 days 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 large mason jar (approximately 4 cups) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Brine
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
Pickled Vegetables
- 2 large turnips, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch batons
- 1 small beet, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp peppercorns
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine: Place the water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the water begins to simmer, add the kosher salt and granulated sugar, stirring until both dissolve completely. Add the white vinegar and reduce the heat to medium-low, letting the mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and set the saucepan aside to allow the brine to cool completely.
- Pack the Vegetables: Place the peeled and cut turnips into a clean mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Top the turnips with the chopped beets, then add the sliced garlic and peppercorns evenly to the jar.
- Add the Brine and Refrigerate: Once the brine has cooled, pour it over the vegetables in the jar, ensuring that all the turnips and beets are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for 6 days to allow the flavors to develop and the vegetables to pickle thoroughly.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm turnips for the best crunch and flavor.
- The small beet adds a natural pink hue to the turnips; feel free to adjust the quantity for desired color intensity.
- Ensure the brine completely covers the vegetables to prevent spoilage.
- Pickled turnips can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 months.
- For quicker pickling, you can taste after 3 days but full flavor develops after 6 days.
Keywords: Pickled Turnips, Middle Eastern Pickles, Vegan Pickles, Pickled Vegetables, Homemade Pickles, Turnip Recipe

