Almost every culture has some connection to pickling, and researching pickling traditions yielded lots of ideas for Rick (yes, he’s a real person) who began bringing flavors from Poland, Mexico, Japan and other regions into vibrant and fresh combinations. Classic recipes were refined to enhance what was already strong about them; new recipes were designed to create exciting hybrids. And soon the incubating concept known as Rick’s Picks had varieties in development. They are made in small batches with seasonal, farmer’s market ingredients; therefore all varieties are not available year-round.
Mean Beans These beans are a spicy take on what Rick’s mom calls dilly beans. The cayenne kick has been known to open eyes and nasal passages. The Mean Bean is great in a bloody-Mary or martini. When you finish the jar, cut up carrots into sticks, put them into the jar and return it to the fridge. Four days later, voila, pickled carrots!
