Hot peppers in a jar for winter

Delicious Spicy Pepper Recipe for Winter Canning

Preparing spicy peppers in jars is a beloved tradition that not only enriches our flavors during the cold season but also offers an excellent way to preserve the garden's bounty. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for those who want to add a kick to their meals. So, get ready to transform your spicy peppers into delicious pickles that will delight your taste buds all winter long!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Fermentation time: 1 day
Number of servings: 1 jar (approximately 250 g of peppers)

Ingredients:
- 250 g fresh spicy peppers (choose medium-sized peppers with vibrant color)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 200 ml vinegar (preferably white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar)

A bit of history:
Spicy peppers have been cultivated and used for centuries, originating in Central and South America. They were brought to Europe by explorers, quickly becoming a popular ingredient in various dishes. Pickling peppers is a traditional preservation method that allows the natural flavors and spiciness to be retained while providing a crunchy texture.

Step by Step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure the peppers are fresh, without spots or defects. Wash them well under cold water and let them drain completely.

2. Cut the peppers: Use kitchen scissors to cut the spicy peppers into slices of about 1 cm. This method provides an even cut and helps avoid the risks of cutting yourself with a knife.

3. Fill the jar: Take a clean, sterilized jar (ideally 500 ml) and start adding the chopped spicy peppers. Use a spoon to push the peppers into the jar, ensuring they are packed well to avoid air pockets.

4. Add salt and sugar: Once the jar is filled with peppers, add the salt and sugar. These ingredients not only help with preservation but also balance the spiciness of the peppers.

5. Pour in the vinegar: Fill the jar with vinegar, leaving a little space at the top for liquid expansion. The vinegar is essential for keeping the spicy peppers crunchy and flavorful.

6. Seal the jar: Place the lid on the jar and ensure it is tightly closed. It is important that no air enters to prevent spoilage of the pickles.

7. Storage: Place the jar in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. The next day, gently shake the jar to help the sugar dissolve completely in the vinegar.

8. Wait and enjoy: The spicy peppers will be ready to eat after about a week, but for a more intense flavor, I recommend waiting 2-3 weeks.

Practical Tips:
- Choose peppers: Prefer fresh, firm spicy peppers. Peppers with vibrant colors are the best, and if you want to customize your pickles, you can combine different types of peppers (e.g., jalapeños, chili peppers, etc.).
- Varieties: You can experiment with different types of vinegar or add spices like garlic or peppercorns for an extra flavor boost.
- Usage: Pickled spicy peppers can be used in salads, sandwiches, pizzas, or as a garnish for various dishes. They add a spicy note and enhance the taste of food.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- What do I do if the peppers are not spicy enough? You can add a few hotter peppers to the jar for a more intense flavor.
- How long can pickled peppers be stored? If kept in a dark, cool place, pickled spicy peppers can be consumed for up to a year.
- Can I use flavored vinegar? Yes, using flavored vinegar can add an interesting note to your pickles.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This pickled spicy pepper recipe is low in calories, with approximately 25 calories per serving. Spicy peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and metabolism-boosting effects.

Now it's time to get to work! Pickled spicy peppers will transform your winter meals into an unforgettable experience, full of flavor and color. Delight your family and friends with these delicious spicy peppers in jars and enjoy their spicy taste throughout the cold season. Enjoy your meal!