Though dưa chua or pickled mustard greens is eaten year round, we almost always have a jar of this during Tết (Lunar New Year) along with many other fermented vegetables. This is a perfect addition to any Lunar New Year meal, especially pairs well with thịt kho trứng.
We add Northern Mountain Garlic and Coastal Purple Shallot in the mix to make it even more aromatic. No rehydration is needed for this recipe. The garlic and shallot will slowly bloom in the brine.
750 grams (about 1.6 lbs) mustard greens (gai choy). Pick matured ones with thick stalks and stems 63 grams (~4 tablespoons) brown sugar or palm sugar 45 grams (~3 tablespoons) sea salt 2 liters (~0.5 gallon) water 2 tablespoons Northern Mountain Garlic, sliced 2 tablespoons Coastal Purple Shallot Fresh chili peppers (optional)
SPECIAL TOOL
A glass jar large enough to contain the mustard greens.
Thoroughly clean and sanitize the glass jar that will be used for mustard greens. This is a very important step, so don’t skip it.
Wash the greens to remove dirts and cut into big bite-size pieces.
Let the greens wilt in direct sunlight for 3-4 hours. If you live in an area that barely gets sun in the winter, spread the pieces on a baking tray and put them in an oven at 212°F for 5 minutes.
In a small pot, boil water then add sugar and salt. When the water boils again, wait for an additional 2 minutes. Optionally, blanch the mustard greens while waiting for the water to boil.
Allow the water to cool to 104°F.
Place wilted greens in the jar and add Northern Mountain Garlic, Coastal Purple Shallots, and chili peppers.
Pour the cooled brine into the jar. Secure greens with a glass weight or skewers to fully submerge them.
Move the jar to a warm spot in your home. Place it in direct sunlight if possible. I leave mine next to the heater.
The greens should be ready after 4-5 days (or in less time if you live in warmer climate). You will notice that the mustard greens has turned to a golden hue and the brine becomes more opaque. Do a taste test if the greens are tangy enough. If yes then move the container to the refrigerator and enjoy!
