Naturopathic Cancer Treatment Provider for over 25 years
Pickling vegetables makes the ordinary extraordinary. In this case, with special vegetables, we see how a simple recipe can be considered a powerful remedy. Carrots, burdock, and daikon all detoxify the body by speeding up the activity of the liver and kidneys. Pickling with apple cider vinegar compounds this cleansing action by supporting healthy bile production. Dr. Erika Siegel prescribes this recipe for people with gallstones, sluggish liver function, fatty liver, and high cholesterol (an issue often stemming from the liver). Nibble on pickled vegetables before eating to prime the digestive pump for better nutrient assimilation (and less bloating after meals).
Enjoy with breakfast after an evening of imbibing or eat before bed (along with a sip of the brine) if you tend to get restless legs at night. It’s worth the effort to search local Asian and farmers’ markets for the burdock root, the star player in this recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
MAKES 2 QUARTS
4 medium burdock roots (see Note)
4 medium carrots
4 medium daikon radishes (4 pounds; see Note)
4 cloves garlic, peeled
One 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
1 1⁄2 cups raw apple cider vinegar
1 1⁄2 cups water
3⁄4 cup tamari
DIRECTIONS:
1. Wash and peel the burdock root. Cut it into 3-inch lengths, then quarter each piece lengthwise. Put the burdock in a small pan with a little water and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and steam over medium heat just until the burdock is crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
2. Cut the carrots and unpeeled daikon the same way you cut the burdock. Pack the carrots, burdock, daikon, garlic, and ginger into two 1-quart Mason jars, distributing them evenly.
3. Mix the vinegar, water and tamari in a bowl and pour the mixture evenly into the two jars. Make sure all the veggies are submerged; add a little extra vinegar and tamari if needed. Allow to marinate for at least a day before enjoying.
4. Refrigerate for up to 1 month. Eat as is or chop and add to sushi, salads and stir-fries.
Note:
Fresh burdock and daikon can often be found in Asian markets and farmers’ markets. Look for bright, firm, fresh vegetables.
