Mixed pickles

Assorted Pickles – A Fall Recipe That Brings the Taste of Summer to Your Plate

Fall is the perfect time to preserve the flavors of summer in jars. Assorted pickles are a classic dish, full of flavor, that reminds us of family meals and culinary traditions. In this recipe, I will share the secrets to achieving the tastiest assorted pickles, a perfect accompaniment for various dishes or even a healthy snack.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 2-4 weeks
Number of servings: 10-12 jars

Essential ingredients for assorted pickles:
- 4 kg green tomatoes – these green tomatoes will give a slightly sour taste.
- 1 large cauliflower – adds a crunchy texture.
- 10 carrots – for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks with leaves – provides an irresistible aroma.
- 1 head of garlic – for an intense flavor.
- 1 small red cabbage – an extra splash of color and vitamins.
- 2-3 hot peppers – for a dash of spice, to taste.
- Mustard seeds – for a slightly spicy and aromatic flavor.
- Peppercorns – for a bit of warmth in the pickles.
- About 500 g salt – essential for fermentation.

Preparing the assorted pickles:

1. Washing the vegetables:
Start by thoroughly washing all the vegetables under cold running water. Ensure no impurities or pesticides remain. Fresh vegetables are key for quality pickles.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
- Leave the green tomatoes whole. If they are too large, you can cut them in half for better absorption.
- Break the cauliflower into small florets for easy eating.
- Cut the carrots into rounds or use a cookie cutter to cut them into fun shapes, adding a playful touch to the pickles.
- The hot pepper can be used whole or cut into pieces, depending on how spicy you want the pickles.
- Slice the celery and horseradish into suitable pieces, and shred the red cabbage into thin strips.

3. Arranging the vegetables in jars:
Choose clean, sterilized glass jars. Begin layering the vegetables, alternating between the different types. Between the vegetables, add mustard seeds, peppercorns, and a few cloves of garlic. Place the celery leaves on top for added flavor.

4. Preparing the brine solution:
In a large container, mix water with salt at a ratio of 50 g of salt per 1 liter of water. Ensure the salt is completely dissolved. This brine will help preserve and ferment the vegetables correctly.

5. Filling the jars:
Pour the brine solution over the vegetables in the jars, leaving a little space at the top. Cover the jars with lids, but do not tighten them too much, as fermentation will produce gases.

6. Fermentation:
Place the jars in a cool, dark place, preferably at room temperature. Let them ferment for 2-4 weeks. You can periodically check the jars and, if desired, add more brine to ensure the vegetables are fully covered.

7. Tasting and serving:
After the fermentation period, the pickles are ready to eat! They can be served alongside meat dishes, salads, or simply as a healthy snack. I recommend pairing them with a slice of fresh bread and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutritional benefits:
Assorted pickles are rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain natural probiotics that aid digestion and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the wealth of vegetables provides essential antioxidants for health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with white cabbage, zucchini, or cucumbers, depending on your preferences.
- What should I do if the pickles are too salty? You can add more water to dilute the salt, but be careful not to affect the final taste.
- How can I store the pickles long-term? Ensure the jars are well-sealed and store them in a cool place.

Delicious combinations:
Assorted pickles pair perfectly with meat dishes, but also with cheeses or salads. You can also try serving them alongside a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a perfect meal.

I wish you great success in preparing these assorted pickles! It is a recipe that will not only fill your pantry with delicious flavors but also bring you the joy of savoring the taste of summer, even in the coldest winter days. Perhaps each jar will have a story to tell, and you will be its creator. Enjoy your meal!