Green olives preserved in brine and olive oil - characteristic of Arab countries

Delicious Recipe for Green Olives Preserved in Brine with Olive Oil

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 3 days (plus 1 month for fermentation)
Servings: 10 jars of 1 liter each

Introduction

Green olives preserved in brine are a true delicacy, loved worldwide for their distinct flavor and crunchy texture. This dish is not just a delicious accompaniment to various meals but also an ingenious way to make the most of seasonal produce, transforming them into flavor-packed treasures for winter. A traditional recipe with deep historical roots, preserved olives not only provide a burst of taste but are also very healthy.

Ingredients Needed

- 10 kg green olives
- 2.5 kg lemons
- 6-8 large hot peppers (depending on your preference)
- Water (enough to cover the olives)
- Coarse salt (approximately 750 g)
- 700 ml natural, unrefined olive oil

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Olives

Start by thoroughly washing the green olives under cold running water to remove impurities. Next, it's time to address their bitterness. Place the olives in a basin, making sure not to fill it more than 2/3 full. Cover them with water and let them soak for 3 days. Change the water twice a day to help remove the bitter compounds from the olives. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant final result.

Step 2: Preparing the Aromatic Ingredients

After three days, drain the water from the olives. Squeeze the juice from half of the lemons and cut the other half into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Slice the hot peppers into rounds of about 2 cm, removing the seeds if you prefer less spicy olives.

Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients

In the basin with the olives, add the lemon cubes and hot pepper rounds. Gently press the lemons with your hands to release the juice, which will soak into the olives, enhancing their flavor. Carefully mix everything to combine the ingredients.

Step 4: Filling the Jars

Prepare the glass jars, ensuring they are clean and dry. Fill them with the mixture of olives, lemon, and peppers, leaving a 4 cm space at the top. Cover the olives with a perforated plastic disc; this will prevent the olives from floating to the surface when you add the brine.

Step 5: Preparing the Brine

To prepare the brine, bring water to a boil, adding 75 g of salt for each liter of water. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved, then allow it to cool. Once the water has cooled, pour it into the jars, ensuring it covers the olives. Fill the remaining 3-4 cm with olive oil, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent mold.

Step 6: Fermentation and Preservation

Seal the jars tightly and leave them in a cool place for one day to monitor the fermentation. After this period, you can transfer the jars to the pantry. The olives will be ready to eat after about a month, but the longer they sit, the tastier they become.

Practical Tips

- Source of Olives: Choose high-quality olives, preferably from a local supplier or a trusted source, to ensure their freshness.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin, unrefined olive oil to add a complex flavor to your dish.
- Variations: You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of peppers or even other citrus fruits, such as oranges.
- Storing in Jars: Ensure the jars are well-sealed to prevent oxidation and keep the flavor intact.

Nutritional Benefits

Green olives are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, E, and K), and minerals such as iron and copper. Consuming them can help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health. Olive oil is also known for its beneficial properties, positively affecting cholesterol and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I keep the olives?
Preserved olives can be stored for several years, but their flavor intensifies over time.

2. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment with spices like garlic or coriander seeds to add a personalized touch.

3. How can I use the preserved olives?
Olives can be served as an appetizer, added to salads, pasta, or as part of a cheese platter.

Delicious Combinations

These preserved green olives pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. We suggest serving them alongside feta cheese or a platter of flavorful cured meats. Additionally, a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, this recipe for green olives preserved in brine is not only a way to preserve seasonal produce but also an invitation to enjoy authentic and traditional flavors. Transform your kitchen into a taste paradise and share these delicious olives with your loved ones. Bon appétit!