Pickled bell peppers

Pickled Peppers - A Classic and Flavorful Recipe for Winter

An essential ingredient in any pantry, pickled peppers not only enrich meals with a vibrant touch but also bring a hint of nostalgia in every jar. This simple yet aromatic recipe will help you preserve the taste of summer throughout the year. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step through the process of preparing these delicious pickled peppers, providing you with useful tips and tricks to achieve perfect results.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 jars of 800 ml

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 kg of peppers, washed and seeded
- 2 liters of water
- 1 liter of vinegar (preferably wine vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons of pickling salt
- 3 tablespoons of honey or sugar
- 3-4 onions (preferably red for a sweeter taste)
- 1 head of garlic
- 10-12 bay leaves
- 30 g mustard seeds
- 30 g black peppercorns
- a few horseradish roots, cut into sticks
- 8-10 jars of 800 ml with screw caps

A brief history of pickled peppers

Preserving vegetables in vinegar is an ancient tradition used for centuries to extend the shelf life of food. Peppers, with their crunchy texture and sweet taste, are ideal for pickling. This recipe is based on traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations, transforming seasonal vegetables into delicious preserves that can be enjoyed all year round.

Preparing pickled peppers

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thoroughly washing the peppers, then seed and cut them in half. Make sure the onions and garlic are peeled and sliced thinly. The horseradish will be cut into sticks, adding a spicy flavor to the preserves.

2. Preparing the brine: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water, 1 liter of vinegar, 3 tablespoons of salt, and 3 tablespoons of honey or sugar. This mixture will create a flavorful brine that will give the peppers a wonderful taste. Add 5 bay leaves and 15 peppercorns for extra flavor. Place the pot on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Boiling the peppers: Once the brine starts to boil, add the peppers in batches. Allow each batch to boil for 1 minute. This step is crucial for slightly softening the peppers while still keeping their crunchy texture. Remove the peppers from the pot and place them in a bowl.

4. Filling the jars: Prepare clean, dry jars, and in each jar add a piece of horseradish, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1 bay leaf, a few peppercorns, 1-2 cloves of garlic, and a bit of onion. Fill the jars with peppers, gently pressing down to maximize the amount.

5. Adding the brine: Pour the warm brine over the peppers, filling the jars to the brim. Ensure that the peppers are completely covered with liquid, and if necessary, add a bit more brine.

6. Sealing the jars: Close the jars with the screw caps, making sure they are well sealed to prevent air from entering.

7. Storing: Place the jars in a dark, cool place, such as a pantry. It is recommended to let the peppers mature for 2-3 months before consuming them, allowing the flavors to fully develop.

Useful tips:

- Choose quality peppers that are well-ripened, without spots or defects.
- Use quality wine vinegar for superior taste.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of honey or sugar in the recipe.
- Peppers can be combined with other vegetables, such as carrots or cucumbers, for a varied pickle salad.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen peppers? It is not recommended, as the texture will change after thawing.
- How can I use pickled peppers? They are delicious as a side dish to various dishes, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in salads.
- How long can I keep pickled peppers? If properly sealed, they can be stored for up to 1 year.

Delicious combinations:

Pickled peppers pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. You can serve them alongside a juicy steak, a cheese pie, or a cold potato salad. They also pair excellently with a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a fruit cocktail.

Possible variations:

- Extra garlic peppers: Add more cloves of garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy peppers: If you want to add a bit of heat, try adding some hot peppers to the jars.
- Turmeric peppers: Turmeric will add a vibrant color and a slightly earthy taste.

Now that you have learned how to prepare pickled peppers, you are ready to transform fresh garden vegetables into delicious preserves that will enrich your meals throughout the year. Don't forget to enjoy every jar you open, each bite being a reminder of summer! Enjoy your meal!