[4] In the United States, giardiniera is commonly available in traditional or spicy varieties, and the latter is sometimes referred to as "hot mix".
[citation needed] In the cuisine of Chicago, an oil-based giardiniera[5] is often used as a condiment, typically as a topping on Italian beef sandwiches,[6] subs, and pizza.
[7] The Italian version includes bell peppers, celery, carrots, cauliflower and gherkins.
[citation needed] The pickled vegetables are marinated in oil, red- or white-wine vinegar, herbs and spices.
[citation needed] Chicago-style giardiniera is commonly made spicy with sport peppers or chili flakes, along with a combination of assorted vegetables, including bell peppers, celery, carrots, cauliflower,[8] and sometimes gherkins or olives,[9] all marinated in vegetable oil, olive oil, soybean oil, or any combination of the three.