Chili Peppers in a Jar

Delicious Recipe for Preserved Hot Peppers

If you are looking for a simple canning recipe that adds a touch of warmth and flavor to your dishes, you have come to the right place! Today, we will prepare preserved hot peppers, a traditional method of preserving the aroma and spiciness of this special ingredient. This recipe is not only easy to make but will also provide you with a wonderful condiment option for various dishes, from salads to stews. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 3 jars of 370 ml

Ingredients
- 1 kg hot peppers (choose your favorites, whether green or red)
- 1100 ml vinegar (preferably 9% for effective preservation)
- 1 teaspoon salt (non-iodized salt is best to avoid chemical reactions with vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (to balance the acidity of the vinegar)
- Pickling spices:
- 10 peppercorns
- 10 mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander (optional, for a distinct flavor)
- 5 juniper berries
- 2 cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 dried chili pepper (for extra heat)
- 5 allspice berries

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by carefully washing the hot peppers under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean and free of impurities. Cut off the stems, but leave them whole for an attractive look in the jar. If you prefer a spicier note, you can make a few cuts in the peppers.

2. Preparing the pickling solution
In a large pot, add the vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences; the sweeter it is, the more balanced the acidity will be. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Then, let the solution boil for 5-10 minutes. This step not only creates a flavorful marinade but also sterilizes the solution for better preservation.

3. Filling the jars
While the solution is boiling, prepare the jars. Make sure they are well cleaned and sterilized, either by washing them in the dishwasher or boiling them in water. Place the peppers in the jars, leaving a little space at the top.

4. Pouring the solution
After the vinegar solution has boiled, let it cool for a few minutes. Now, using a ladle, carefully pour the warm vinegar over the peppers, filling the jars to the brim. It is important that the peppers are completely covered by the liquid to prevent mold.

5. Sealing the jars
Put the lids on the jars and tighten them well, but do not overdo it to avoid deformation. I advise you to place the jars in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.

6. Waiting
Let the jars cool completely before storing them. It is recommended to wait a few weeks before tasting the peppers, so the flavors can blend perfectly.

Useful tips
- Pepper varieties: You can experiment with different types of peppers, such as jalapeños, habaneros, or even sweet peppers if you want an interesting contrast.
- Additives: Add garlic or onion for an extra flavor. These ingredients can radically change the final taste.
- Use fresh spices: Fresh or high-quality dried spices can make a significant difference in the taste of the dish.

Nutritional benefits
Hot peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Moderate consumption of hot peppers can boost metabolism and have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.

Serving
Preserved hot peppers can be served as an appetizer, alongside cheeses or cold cuts, or added to salads for an extra flavor boost. You can also use them as a garnish for meat dishes or in sandwiches, bringing an explosion of flavors.

Frequently asked questions
- How long can I keep hot peppers in a jar? If stored properly, peppers can last up to a year.
- What should I do if the liquid in the jar evaporates? Make sure the peppers are completely covered by liquid. If you notice that the liquid has evaporated, you can add more vinegar, but ensure it is sterilized.
- Can I use apple cider vinegar? Yes, but the result will be different, and the flavor may be sweeter.

Variations
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try including fruits, such as pears or peaches, in the pepper mixture. This will add a surprising sweetness that complements the spiciness of the peppers.

In conclusion, this recipe for preserved hot peppers is not just a way to preserve this flavorful vegetable, but also an opportunity to enhance your culinary skills. You will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones when you serve them dishes seasoned with these spicy delights. Enjoy!