Gherkins in brine

Green Tomatoes in Brine with Winter Aromas

It is said that winter means not only the cold outside but also the warmth within, and nothing warms us better than the memories of a lavish meal filled with delicious dishes. The preparation of green tomatoes in brine is an old tradition that brings not only flavor but also nostalgia and joy. This dish is perfect to be served alongside various meals, and its unique aroma will transform every meal into a celebration.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 24 hours
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 g

Ingredients:

- 1 kg green tomatoes (or green peppers)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled
- A sprig of fresh thyme
- A flower of dill
- 1-2 hot peppers (optional, depending on your taste)
- 100 g celery (leaves or root), finely chopped
- 2-3 pieces of fresh horseradish (about 5 cm each)
- 1 l water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 cup vinegar (to taste)
- Cherry leaves (optional, for flavor)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the green tomatoes well under cold running water. Make sure they are clean and free of defects. Wash the carrots and slice them, and peel the garlic.

2. Arranging in jars: Take the 800 g jars and place a flower of dill at the bottom of each, along with some carrot slices, garlic, a few celery leaves, and pieces of horseradish. Then, place the green tomatoes one by one, ensuring they are packed tightly to avoid air pockets.

3. Adding spices: Continue to add carrot slices, thyme sprigs, and hot pepper if you want a spicier taste. Cherry leaves can also be added to enhance the flavor of the dish.

4. Preparing the brine: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the salt and stir until completely dissolved. Once the salt is dissolved, you can add the vinegar, adjusting the amount according to your taste. This will give a tangy note that balances the sweetness of the green tomatoes.

5. Filling the jars: Pour the hot brine over the green tomatoes, filling the jars to 1 cm from the top. Make sure all the ingredients are completely covered by the liquid.

6. Sealing the jars: Seal each jar with a sterilized lid. It is important to ensure that the jars are well sealed to prevent air from entering.

7. Cooling and storing: Place the jars in a cool, dark place to cool completely. Ideally, leave them for 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavors to develop.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing green tomatoes: Opt for firm, smooth, and green tomatoes, as these will yield better results in brine.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy food, feel free to add more hot peppers or even spices like paprika or pepper.
- Enhancing flavor: Cherry leaves add a special note. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano.
- Storage: These green tomatoes can be kept in the pantry throughout winter, making them ideal to accompany meat dishes or salads.

Nutritional Benefits:

Green tomatoes are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are a good source of antioxidants. Garlic and horseradish add antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- How long can I keep the green tomatoes in brine? If stored in a cool, dark place, they can last up to a year.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, cauliflower, or carrots to the brine for various combinations.
- What can I serve alongside the green tomatoes? They pair perfectly with grilled meat, sandwiches, or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve the green tomatoes as a side dish alongside a juicy steak or in a winter salad. You can add them to sandwiches or use them as an ingredient in sauces and stews to give them a special flavor.

Variations:

Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or wine vinegar, to add a distinctive note. You can also try enriching the brine with spices like coriander or mustard seeds.

In conclusion, preparing green tomatoes in brine is not just a tradition but also a wonderful way to bring the flavors of summer to your winter plates. With every jar you open, you will discover an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. So, don’t hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe!