Picarella

Onion and Hot Pepper Preserve - a delicious recipe for chilly days

When it comes to preserving the taste of summer for winter, nothing compares to a jar of vegetables made with love. This onion and hot pepper preserve recipe will turn any meal into a delightful feast. You will feel the warmth and aroma of these ingredients even on the coldest days. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 5 kg of onions
- 1 kg of red hot peppers (must have)
- 1 l of water
- 1/2 l of vinegar
- 125 g of sugar
- Salt to taste

Recipe story:
Preserving vegetables is an ancient tradition practiced for centuries. From capturing the flavors of summer to creating dishes that complement winter meals, every family has its special recipe. This recipe is perfect for retaining the freshness of the onions and adding a spicy touch to your dishes.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the onions. Slice them thinly, whether you choose to julienne or cut into rings. Hand slicing will not only give you better control over the sizes but will also keep the vegetables' crunchy texture. The hot peppers should be deseeded and then sliced into thin strips. I recommend wearing gloves at this stage to avoid irritation!

2. Cooking the vegetables:
Place all the chopped ingredients into a large pot over heat. Add the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients well, then let them boil over medium heat. You will notice the aroma of the onions starting to release and how the hot pepper adds a vibrant and spicy note.

3. Checking the consistency:
After about 15-20 minutes of boiling, the onions should be soft and well soaked. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt or sugar according to your preferences. If you prefer a more sour taste, you can add a bit more vinegar.

4. Bottling:
Once the mixture is ready, take the prepared jars (make sure they are sterilized) and fill them with the hot mixture. It is important to use warm jars to avoid breaking them. Close the jars with the lids and seal them well.

5. Cooling and storing:
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Once completely cooled, you can store them in the pantry. These preserves will be perfect for adding a bit of zest to your winter meals.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh, juicy, medium-sized onions. This will provide a better taste to the dish.
- If you prefer a lower heat level, you can use sweet peppers in combination with the hot pepper.
- You can also add other spices, such as peppercorns or bay leaves, to diversify the flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This onion and hot pepper preserve is low in calories, with approximately 50 calories per serving. Onions are an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, while hot peppers contain capsaicin, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in the recipe?
Yes! You can experiment with carrots or celery to add a variety of textures.

- How long do the preserves last?
If stored properly, the preserves can last up to a year.

- How can I serve this preserve?
It can be added to salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish for meat dishes.

Serving and variations:
I recommend serving this preserve alongside aged cheese and fresh bread. The combination of the spicy taste of the pepper with the creamy cheese will create a unique tasting experience. You can also drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the preserves before serving for an added flavor boost.

In conclusion, this onion and hot pepper preserve recipe is not only an excellent way to preserve vegetables but also a way to add a touch of warmth and flavor to your winter meals. Happy cooking and enjoy every jar full of flavor!