Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pickled bologna in a glass jar with brine

Pickled Bologna – A Classic Snack with a Tangy Twist


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 15 minutes + 3 days of pickling
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Tangy and savory pickled bologna is a bold, zesty snack with deep roots in Midwest and Southern cuisine. This cured meat is soaked in a vinegar-based brine, infused with garlic and spices for a mouthwatering bite. Enjoy it straight from the jar, with crackers and cheese, or as part of a charcuterie board.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ring bologna, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • ΒΌ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tbsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns

Instructions

  • Prepare the Bologna

    • Cut the ring bologna into bite-sized chunks or 1-inch slices.
  • Make the Pickling Brine

    • In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, garlic, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, and black peppercorns.
    • Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt.
    • Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Pack the Jar

    • Place the sliced bologna in a clean glass jar.
    • Carefully pour the hot brine over the bologna, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
  • Seal and Store

    • Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it with a tight-fitting lid.
    • Refrigerate for at least 3 days before eating (for best flavor, let it sit for a week).
  • Enjoy!

    • Serve chilled, straight from the jar, with crackers and cheese, or on a sandwich.

Notes

  • The longer the bologna sits in the brine, the more intense the flavor.
  • For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes.
  • Use high-quality bologna for the best taste.
  • Store refrigerated for up to 2 months (best consumed within 2-3 weeks after opening).
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer,lunch
  • Method: Pickling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 oz
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Pickled bologna, homemade pickled bologna, pickled meats, Midwest snacks, vinegar brined bologna