Pickled bell peppers

Pickled Peppers – The Summer Delight in a Jar

Who doesn't love the rich, tangy, and sweet taste of pickled peppers? This pickled pepper recipe is not only a great way to preserve these delicious vegetables for winter, but also a perfect opportunity to add a splash of color and flavor to your meals. Peppers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and by pickling them, they retain not only their flavor but also their nutritional benefits.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 jars (approximately 600 ml each)

Ingredients:
- 6 kg peppers (choose ripe peppers with vibrant color)
- 600 g sugar (preferably granulated sugar)
- 6 tablespoons coarse salt (non-iodized salt is ideal)
- 1 l vinegar (opt for white wine vinegar for a milder taste)

Step 1: Preparing the Peppers
The first step in this recipe is to handle the peppers. With special care, remove the stems and seeds, ensuring they are well washed. It is important to eliminate any impurities, as they can affect the final taste of your preparation. Once cleaned, cut the peppers into quarters or slices, depending on your preferences.

Step 2: Marinating
In a large container, mix the peppers with the vinegar, sugar, and salt. It is essential to mix the ingredients well so that each piece of pepper is evenly coated with this delicious mixture. After mixing, let them sit for 24 hours. During this time, stir occasionally so that the peppers absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Packing into Jars
After 24 hours, it’s time to pack the peppers into jars. Choose clean and dry jars, preferably sterilized, to avoid contamination. Carefully place the peppers in the jars, leaving room for the marinade liquid. It is important to ensure that the peppers are completely covered with the remaining vinegar. Seal each jar with a tightly fitted lid to preserve the preparation.

Step 4: Storing
Once you have filled the jars, place them in a cool, dark place. Your pickled peppers will be ready to consume after about 2-3 weeks, but if you have patience, let them mature for a few months for an even more intense flavor.

Practical tips:
- You can add spices like peppercorns, bay leaves, or even garlic to give your peppers an extra flavor boost.
- Pickled peppers pair perfectly as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads.
- Make sure the jars are perfectly sealed; an unsealed jar can lead to spoilage of the contents.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peppers?
It is not recommended, as the texture of the peppers will change significantly after thawing. Always use fresh vegetables.
2. How can I tell if the peppers are spoiled?
If you notice an unpleasant smell or if the liquid is cloudy, it is better not to consume the preparation.
3. How long can I keep pickled peppers?
If properly preserved, pickled peppers can be kept in jars for a year or even longer.

Pickled peppers are a true delight, and once you've learned how to prepare them, you can experiment with various variations. Perhaps you want to add carrots or onions for a more complex composition. Additionally, you can serve the peppers alongside goat cheese or a charcuterie board to create a savory appetizer that will impress friends and family.

Cooking these pickled peppers is not just a practical activity, but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. So, don’t hesitate to invite friends or family to help you in this process. The laughter and stories shared while preparing this recipe will make each jar even more special. Enjoy!