Hot peppers for winter

Spicy Peppers for Winter – Delicious Preserves from Grandma's Memories

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Fermentation time: 1-2 weeks
Number of servings: 6 bottles of 1 liter

Welcome to the kitchen where tradition intertwines with the intense flavor of spicy peppers! Today I will show you how to preserve spicy peppers so that you can enjoy them throughout the winter. This recipe carries the imprint of my grandmother's love and wisdom, who passed on not only the technique but also the desire to keep culinary traditions alive. Cook with your heart and you will achieve delicious results!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg spicy peppers (you can use different types according to your preferences)
- 2-3 tablespoons of salt (approximately 50-60 g)
- 500 ml vinegar (preferably 9% for a more pronounced taste)
- 500 ml water

Ingredient tips:

1. Spicy peppers: Choose fresh, vibrant peppers without spots or damage. The smaller they are, the spicier they will be. You can combine different varieties for a more complex flavor.
2. Salt: Choose non-iodized salt, as iodized salt can alter the taste. You can experiment with sea salt or Himalayan salt for a distinct flavor.
3. Vinegar: A high-quality vinegar will make a difference in the preparation. Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can add interesting notes, but standard wine vinegar is the most commonly used.

Next steps:

1. Washing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dust. Dry them with a clean towel.

2. Preparing the bottles: Use well-cleaned and sterilized 1-liter bottles. You can do this by boiling them or washing them in a dishwasher at high temperatures. Ensure they are completely dry before adding the peppers.

3. Assembling: Place the spicy peppers in the bottles, making sure to arrange them well so that no air pockets remain. You can leave them whole or cut them in half, depending on your preferences.

4. Adding salt: Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of salt in each bottle. The salt helps to preserve the peppers and intensify the flavor.

5. Preparing the preserving liquid: In a container, mix the vinegar with the water. You can adjust the proportions depending on how tangy you want the preparation to be. Meanwhile, boil the mixture for a few minutes, then let it cool slightly.

6. Filling the bottles: Pour the vinegar and water mixture over the peppers in the bottles, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave a small space at the top, about 2-3 cm.

7. Sealing: Close the bottles with their caps, making sure they are well sealed.

8. Fermentation: Leave the bottles in a dark, cool place for 1-2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop. You can check periodically to ensure the peppers remain covered with liquid.

Serving suggestions:

Preserved spicy peppers are an excellent accompaniment to various dishes, from meat and fish meals to salads or even pizza. You can also use them to add flavor to sauces or marinades. They are also delicious alongside aged cheese or a platter of cold cuts.

Tips and variations:

- Instead of water, you can use tomato juice for a richer flavor.
- Add a few cloves of garlic or spices like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the aroma.
- If you prefer less spicy peppers, you can mix spicy peppers with sweet peppers, which will temper the heat.

Nutritional benefits:

Spicy peppers are rich in vitamins C, A, and antioxidants. Consuming them can boost metabolism and help strengthen the immune system. They can also bring benefits for heart health and improve digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long do preserved peppers last?
Well-preserved spicy peppers can last up to a year if stored under proper conditions.

2. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, but make sure the vinegar is of good quality and not too sweet.

3. What do I do if the peppers are not completely covered with liquid?
You can add more vinegar and water mixture to cover them.

So now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! You will discover that, in addition to the spicy peppers, you will also preserve beautiful memories with your loved ones. Prepare with love and enjoy every bite!