When coupled with pantry ingredients, the lowly carrot is transformed into a colorful tapa. These tangy carrots are also great on salads, charcuterie boards, or relish trays. They’ll keep for several days in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
- 18 ounces large carrots (6 to 7), peeled and ends trimmed
- Coarse salt (kosher or sea)
- 2 large garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked Spanish paprika (pimentón)
- 1/2 cup sherry vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Chopped flat-leaf parsley or dill
Directions
Step 1
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the peeled carrots and cook until just tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Do not overcook. Drain, place the carrots back in the pot, and cover with cold water. Once the carrots are cool, slice into coins about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick. Place in a large lidded jar.
Step 2
Using a mortar and pestle, mash the peeled garlic with the oregano, cumin seeds, and paprika to form a paste. If a mortar and pestle is not available, the garlic can also be grated, then mixed with the spices. Add the mixture to the jar with the carrots.
Step 3
Pour in the vinegar and water. Stir to combine the seasonings with the carrots. If the carrots are not covered in liquid, add a little more (equal parts vinegar and water). Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Step 4
To serve, remove the carrots with a slotted spoon and arrange on small plates. Sprinkle with salt, drizzle generously with olive oil, and top with chopped parsley.
Serves 4 to 6 — Recipe adapted from tarasmulticulturaltable.com