Pepper and cauliflower in vinegar for winter

Peppers and Cauliflower in Vinegar for Winter

Who doesn't love the wonderful aroma of preserved vegetables for winter? Peppers and cauliflower in vinegar are an excellent choice to add a touch of freshness and flavor to winter meals. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for those who want to fill their pantry with healthy preparations, as well as for those who want to impress their family with unique tastes.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 425 g

Ingredients:
- 11 kg peppers
- 3 L vinegar
- 2 kg sugar
- 5 bay leaves
- Black peppercorns (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Mustard seeds (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 bunch of cleaned horseradish
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- Onion (optional, for cauliflower)
- Garlic (optional, for cauliflower)
- 1 cauliflower (about 1 kg, optional)

Brief history
Preserving vegetables in vinegar is an ancient practice that dates back to ancient times when people sought effective methods to keep their food for a long time. This recipe for peppers and cauliflower in vinegar not only combines tradition with taste but also offers a wonderful opportunity to keep the essence of summer for colder days.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by cleaning the peppers. It is ideal to wipe them well with a clean, dry cloth, avoiding washing them, which could affect their texture. You can slice them or keep them whole, depending on your preference.

2. Preparing the brine: In a large pot, combine the vinegar with the sugar, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it boils, let it cool to room temperature.

3. Marinating the peppers: Once the brine has cooled, pour it over the peppers in the basin. This process will allow the peppers to absorb the flavors and become delicious. Cover the basin with a clean towel and let them sit for 24 hours.

4. Preparing the jars: The next day, wash the jars well and place them in the oven at 100°C to sterilize and dry them. This step is essential to prevent contamination of the preparation.

5. Filling the jars: In each jar, add 3 bay leaves, a few peppercorns, mustard seeds, carrot slices, and optionally, a few slices of horseradish. Carefully arrange the peppers in the jars, ensuring that no air bubbles remain. Then, fill the jars with the remaining brine from the basin, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top.

6. Adding the cauliflower (optional): If you want to add cauliflower, cut it into florets and follow the same instructions as for the peppers. You can add sliced onion, garlic, carrot, and other preferred spices.

7. Sealing the jars: Seal the jars tightly with the sterilized lids. Make sure they are airtight to prevent air from entering.

8. Storing and serving: Place the jars in a cool, dark place. The peppers and cauliflower in vinegar will be ready to consume after a few weeks, and their flavor will intensify over time.

Useful tips:
- Use ripe, firm-textured peppers for the best results.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add hot peppers to the jars.
- Ensure that all ingredients are fresh and of high quality for a delicious preparation.

Nutritional benefits:
Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and fiber, while cauliflower is rich in antioxidants. These preserved vegetables can improve digestion and contribute to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar?
- Yes, apple cider vinegar can add a sweet note, but make sure it has a similar acidity.

2. How long can I keep the peppers and cauliflower in vinegar?
- If stored properly, they can last up to a year.

3. What other vegetables can I preserve with this recipe?
- Besides peppers and cauliflower, you can try carrots, cucumbers, or onions.

A personal note: When preparing this recipe, don’t forget to enjoy the process! Cooking is an art, and each jar you fill with peppers and cauliflower becomes a part of your culinary story. Take a moment to savor the aroma of the spices, enjoy the vibrant colors of the vegetables, and think about the delicious meals you will share with loved ones.

Delicious combinations:
- Peppers and cauliflower in vinegar are excellent as a side dish for meats or fish.
- You can also serve them with goat cheese and fresh bread for a tasty appetizer.

So, get ready to bring a touch of summer to the cold winter days with this recipe for peppers and cauliflower in vinegar! Bon appétit!