Daikon Tsukemono

This sweet and spicy simple daikon pickle is known as Su-Zake a Japanese term used for vegetables pickled in rice vinegar. Tsukemono means pickled things . Also known as Namasu ( Nama meaning raw) this can refer to raw vegetables and seafood slightly pickled in vinegar. Where as sunomono are just foods dressed in vinegar.

This is a quick pickle that lasts a few days in the fridge and is perfect for the shojin ryori cuisine . Just steamed rice, miso soup and tsukemono for a traditional meal. Pickles are used to cleanse the palate and can be used between courses like in the elaborate kaiseki cuisine.

Peel and slice your daikon ( around a six inch piece ) in to half rounds.

In a pan add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar,1 tablespoon of mirin,2 tablespoons of organic caster sugar and a pinch of salt. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. I was lucky enough to have fresh Yuzu peel which I have frozen in the freezer so I added a few pieces to the heated liquid and a little chopped red fresh chilli pepper. You could use unwaxed organic lemon peel if you wish.

Add your daikon to a jar and pour in your sugar mixture . Give it a good shake to evenly coat the daikon and leave in the fridge over night. I actually gave mine a few more shakes at regular intervals. You will have a lovely crisp pickle you can add to salad or as a side dish to your meal.