Pickled bell peppers

Pickled Peppers – A Delicious Recipe for Winter

If you want to add a burst of flavor to every meal, the pickled pepper recipe is the perfect choice! These crunchy peppers, soaked in an aromatic mixture, are not only an excellent side dish for meats but also a special appetizer that will impress everyone. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to prepare pickled peppers, along with some tips and tricks to achieve the best results.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients

- 10 kg peppers (red and meaty, for an intense flavor)
- 2 l vinegar (preferably 9%, for a balanced taste)
- 0.5 kg sugar (to counterbalance the acidity of the vinegar)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive, for added aroma)
- 2 tablespoons salt (sea salt, for better flavor)
- 4 tablespoons honey (for natural sweetness and a complex taste)
- 2 pieces horseradish (fresh, for a spicy note)
- Peppercorns (about 10-15, to taste)
- Bay leaves (4-5 leaves, to add flavor)
- Mustard seeds (1-2 tablespoons, for a hint of spice)

Brief history

Pickled peppers have a long tradition in food preservation, being a method used for generations to take advantage of bountiful vegetable harvests. Pickling is not just a preservation technique but also an art, allowing ingredients to develop deep and complex flavors. This recipe can easily be adapted to personal preferences, and the result is always a burst of flavors.

Step by step

1. Preparing the peppers:
The first step is to clean, wash, and cut the peppers into halves or quarters, depending on the desired size. Make sure to choose well-ripened peppers, as they are meatier and will have a more pleasant texture after pickling.

2. Preparing the pickling liquid:
In a large pot (the best choice is a cauldron, due to its size), add vinegar, sugar, salt, oil, honey, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Mix the ingredients well to combine, then place the mixture over medium heat.

3. Boiling the liquid:
When the mixture starts to boil, let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely. The aroma that will waft from the pot will fill the entire kitchen!

4. Adding the peppers:
Add the peppers to the pot, making sure they are covered by the liquid. Let them boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a clean container. Repeat this process until all the peppers are cooked.

5. Packing the peppers:
After you finish boiling the peppers, let them and the liquid cool slightly. Then, start filling the jars: add the peppers, followed by the aromatic liquid. Each jar will also receive a few pieces of cut horseradish, which will add extra flavor and a bit of spice.

6. Sealing the jars:
After you have filled the jars, seal them well and let them cool completely. It is recommended to store them in a cool, dark place, and after a few weeks, your pickled peppers will be ready to eat!

Useful tips

- Choosing the peppers: Make sure to choose fresh peppers, without spots or damage. Small, meaty peppers are usually the best for preservation.
- Variations: You can experiment with other spices, such as chili or garlic, to give a personal touch to your recipe.
- Using the leftover liquid: The leftover liquid from the jars can be used as a base for sauces or marinades, adding a savory note to your dishes.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Of course! The same method can be applied to cucumbers, carrots, or cauliflower.

2. How long do pickled peppers last?
If sealed properly, pickled peppers can last up to a year under proper storage conditions.

3. Can I eat the pickled peppers immediately after preparation?
Although the peppers can be consumed after a few days, it is best to wait a few weeks for the flavors to fully develop.

Serving suggestions

Pickled peppers are delicious alongside meats, salads, or in sandwiches. You can serve them as an appetizer with cheeses and cold cuts, or add them to burgers for a crunchy note. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold beer are excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

Nutritional benefits

Peppers are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy choice. Pickling preserves most of their nutrients, and the addition of horseradish helps boost the immune system.

In conclusion, pickled peppers not only add flavor to your meals but are also an excellent method of preserving garden vegetables. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience! Enjoy your meal!