Bulgarian peppers in vinegar

Bulgarian Peppers in Vinegar – A Delicacy at Home

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400 ml

Bulgarian peppers in vinegar are an excellent choice to add a splash of flavor to your meal. This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but is also a traditional method of preserving vegetables that can transform even the simplest dishes into true delights.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Preserving vegetables in vinegar is an ancient practice used for centuries to ensure a reserve of vitamins and nutrients during the winter. Bulgarian peppers, with their crunchy texture and sweet aroma, are perfect for preserving. This recipe stands out by adding a chili pepper, which gives them a spicy note, making them an ideal appetizer or a delicious accompaniment to main courses.

Ingredients

- 500 g Bulgarian peppers
- 350 ml wine vinegar
- 700 ml water
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 bay leaves
- Peppercorns (about 10)
- Mustard seeds (about 10)
- 1 chili pepper (for an extra kick)

Preparing Bulgarian Peppers in Vinegar – Step by Step

1. Preparing the Peppers:
- Start by washing the Bulgarian peppers under a stream of cold water, ensuring that you remove any impurities. Dry them with a clean towel.
- Cut off the stems of the peppers and, if you wish, you can cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preference.

2. Packing in Jars:
- Prepare the sterilized jars. At the bottom of each jar, add a whole chili pepper. This will give a spicy note to the peppers.
- Carefully place the peppers in the jars, trying to pack them as tightly as possible without crushing them.

3. Preparing the Marinade:
- In a pot, combine the water, wine vinegar, salt, sugar, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. These spices will add a deep and complex flavor.
- Place the pot over medium heat and stir gently until the mixture reaches a boiling point.

4. Filling the Jars:
- Once the marinade has started to boil, carefully pour the hot mixture over the peppers, filling the jars almost to the top. Make sure all the peppers are completely covered with liquid.
- Screw the lids on the jars tightly and ensure they are well sealed.

5. Cooling and Storing:
- Wrap the jars in a thick blanket to help them cool slowly. This slow cooling process helps to form an effective vacuum.
- Leave the jars like this until the next day, then store them in a pantry in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choosing Peppers: Opt for well-ripened Bulgarian peppers with vibrant color and no blemishes. Small, round peppers can be used for a more attractive presentation.
- Customizing the Recipe: You can experiment with different types of vinegar – apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different taste. Additionally, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can provide a unique aroma.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of sugar or omit it completely, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 50 kcal
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Bulgarian peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What other vegetables can be preserved in vinegar?
- Besides peppers, potatoes, cucumbers, and onions are excellent for preservation.

2. How long can the peppers be kept in vinegar?
- If stored correctly, peppers can last up to 1 year in the pantry.

3. How can I use the pickled peppers?
- Preserved Bulgarian peppers are perfect as a garnish for sandwiches, salads, or even as an appetizer alongside cheeses.

Serving Suggestion

Serve the Bulgarian peppers in vinegar alongside a platter of cheeses and cold cuts for an informal dinner or as a main ingredient in salads. A bottle of white wine or a craft beer will perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Possible Variations

For an exotic twist, you can add a few slices of fresh ginger to the marinade or experiment with peppers of different colors for a more attractive presentation.

Conclusion

Preparing Bulgarian peppers in vinegar is a true culinary art that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of tradition to your table. Try this simple and delicious recipe and enjoy the intense flavors and crunchy texture of these preserved delicacies! Whether you serve them as an appetizer or use them to add a special taste to your dishes, Bulgarian peppers in vinegar will surely become an essential part of your pantry. Bon appétit!