Hot peppers in vinegar

Spicy Peppers in Vinegar: A Spicy Delicacy for Winter

Every autumn, as nature begins to prepare for the cold winters, it is the perfect time to think about preserves that will warm our souls in the chillier months. Pickled spicy peppers are an excellent choice, not only for their intense flavor but also for their versatility in the kitchen. This simple and quick recipe will help you create a delicacy that will perfectly complement your dishes, especially tripe soup, but also many other meals.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Storage time: 2 years (if stored properly)
Number of servings: varies depending on use

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kilogram of spicy peppers (you can also use sweet peppers if you prefer a milder taste)
- 1 liter of 9-degree vinegar (preferably royal vinegar, due to its quality)
- 1 teaspoon of coarse salt for each 800 ml jar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar for each 800 ml jar

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the spicy peppers well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities, as these details are essential for obtaining a quality final product. Let them dry on a clean towel.

2. Bottling: Place the peppers in 800 ml jars, trying to squeeze them a bit so that there are no empty spaces. This will help maintain the flavors and allow for even pickling.

3. Preparing the brine: In each jar, add one teaspoon of coarse salt and one teaspoon of sugar. The salt will help preserve the peppers, while the sugar will balance the acidity of the vinegar, providing a more complex flavor.

4. Adding the vinegar: Pour the 9-degree vinegar over the peppers, ensuring they are completely covered. This step is crucial to prevent the development of unwanted bacteria.

5. Sealing the jars: Once you have filled the jars, seal them well. It is important that the jars are airtight to prevent oxidation and spoilage of the contents.

6. Storing: Place the jars in a pantry, in a cool and dark place. Here, the peppers will ferment and transform into a spicy delicacy, ready to be used in various dishes.

Nutritional benefits:

Spicy peppers are not only a delicious condiment but also an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, capsaicin, the active compound that gives them their heat, has anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve blood circulation.

Useful tips:

- If you desire a more complex flavor, you can add some spices of your choice, such as mustard seeds or sliced garlic.
- Make sure the jars and lids are perfectly clean and sterilized before filling, to prevent contamination.
- If you prefer a sweeter note, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your personal taste.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but make sure they have a similar acidity to ensure proper preservation.

2. How can I use the juice from the peppers?
The juice from the peppers is perfect for adding a splash of flavor to soups or sauces. Don't throw it away; use it to enrich your dishes!

3. How long can pickled peppers be stored?
They can be stored for up to 2 years, but it is recommended to consume them within the first 6-12 months to enjoy the best flavor.

Suggested recipes and combinations:

Pickled spicy peppers pair wonderfully with various dishes, especially with:

- Tripe soup: add a few peppers for an extra kick.
- Salads: use them to give a spicy flavor to your favorite salads.
- Sandwiches: a slice of pickled pepper can turn an ordinary sandwich into something special.

A personal note:

For me, making pickled spicy peppers is a family tradition that brings back childhood memories when my mother used them to flavor soups. It is a simple recipe, but full of emotion and memories. Each jar I fill becomes a little treasure, waiting to be discovered on cold winter days.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get started! You will be delighted with the final result, and surely your pickled peppers will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy and happy cooking!