Assorted pickles (Motan recipe)

Mixed Pickles: A Flavorful Traditional Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 5 jars of 5 liters

It is said that pickles are more than just a simple side dish; they are an essential part of the traditional meal, bringing not only a unique flavor but also a deep connection to childhood memories. This mixed pickle recipe is perfect for transforming fresh vegetables into crunchy delights, ready to be enjoyed alongside any dish.

Ingredients:
- Green tomatoes (preferably large and slightly ripe)
- Small watermelons
- White cabbage
- Red cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Horseradish
- Garlic
- Celery leaves
- Salt
- Wine vinegar (9%)
- Bay leaves
- Whole peppercorns
- Mustard seeds

Helpful tips for ingredients:
1. Choose large green tomatoes, as smaller ones can be bitter. They will add a pleasant acidity to the pickles.
2. Small watermelons are ideal for 5-liter jars, ensuring they fit easily.
3. Make sure all vegetables are fresh and firm; the pickles will be tastier and crunchier.
4. Adding horseradish to the jar not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the pickles for a longer time.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Let them drain on a clean rack. Peel the horseradish, carrots, and garlic, and you can cut the carrots into rounds or strips, depending on your preference.

2. Arranging the jars: For each jar, place celery leaves at the bottom, a few pieces of horseradish, and 2-3 cloves of garlic. Then, pack the vegetables into the jar, making sure to arrange them as tightly as possible to minimize space.

3. Filling with vegetables: After filling the jar, add more celery leaves, a few stalks of cross-cut celery to keep the vegetables submerged, 2-3 cloves of garlic, and the remaining pieces of horseradish.

4. Preparing the brine: In a pot, add one tablespoon of salt for every liter of water. For 10 liters of brine, add 200 ml of wine vinegar. You can also add spices: bay leaves, whole peppercorns, and mustard seeds. Boil the brine for 2-3 minutes, then let it cool slightly.

5. Filling the jars: Place the jars on some knives (to avoid direct contact with the work surface) and ensure they are well filled with hot brine. Cover them with saucers and let them cool in the kitchen until the next day.

6. Completing the process: The next day, top off the jars with any remaining brine, seal them with two layers of cellophane, and store them in a cool place, such as a pantry or a cupboard on the balcony. The pickles will be ready to eat after 3-4 weeks, depending on the room temperature.

Nutritional benefits and calories:
Mixed pickles are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while also providing beneficial probiotics for digestion. They are low in calories, promoting a healthy diet. Each serving of pickles may contain approximately 15-20 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations:
1. Alternative vegetables: You can also add other vegetables like radishes, bell peppers, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.
2. Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or dill, to achieve a unique flavor.
3. Vinegar-free brine: If you prefer a vinegar-free recipe, you can create a brine using only water and salt, but the pickles may not preserve as well.

Serving suggestions:
Mixed pickles are perfect as a side dish for meat dishes but can also be enjoyed alongside cheeses or as an appetizer. A delicious combination would be with grilled pork chops or a rustic salad with feta cheese.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of vinegar? Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, but the taste will be different.
2. How can I keep the pickles longer? Ensure that the jars are well sealed and store them in a cool, dark place.
3. What should I do if the pickles become soft? This can happen due to improper fermentation. Make sure the vegetables are fresh and that you use quality salt.

In conclusion, this mixed pickle recipe is not only a way to preserve vegetables but also an opportunity to bring a touch of tradition to your table. Enjoy and happy cooking!