Pickled bell peppers

Pickled bell peppers – A rustic and flavorful recipe

Pickled bell peppers are a delicacy that brings a touch of sunshine to any meal, transforming ordinary dishes into true feasts. This recipe for pickled bell peppers is not only an excellent way to preserve vegetables but also an opportunity to savor the rich and intense flavors of the ingredients, perfect for autumn and winter. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and discover together how to achieve delicious pickled bell peppers!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars (depending on jar size)

Essential ingredients:

- 10 kg bell peppers
- 2 liters vinegar
- 0.5 kg sugar
- 200 ml oil
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2 pieces fresh horseradish
- Peppercorns (about 2 tablespoons)
- Bay leaves (4-5 leaves)
- Mustard seeds (about 2 tablespoons)

Preparing the ingredients

Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. It is essential to use fresh, meaty, and defect-free bell peppers. Additionally, the horseradish must be fresh to add that distinct and spicy flavor. If you do not have fresh horseradish, you can use preserved horseradish, but the taste will be different. Start by cleaning the bell peppers of their stems and seeds, then wash them well under cold running water. Once cleaned, cut them into quarters; you can cut them smaller depending on your preferences.

The marinade mixture

In a large pot (a cauldron is ideal due to its capacity), combine the following ingredients: vinegar, sugar, salt, oil, honey, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Mix well to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Place the pot over medium heat and allow the mixture to reach a boiling point.

Boiling the bell peppers

Once the marinade starts to boil, add the cut bell peppers, ensuring they are covered by the liquid. Let them boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a clean vessel. Repeat this process until you have added all the bell peppers. It is important not to boil the bell peppers too much to maintain their crunchy texture.

Filling the jars

After you have removed all the bell peppers from the pot, let them cool slightly along with the marinade. Once cooled, start filling the jars: add the bell peppers followed by the marinade liquid until the jars are completely filled. Ensure that each jar contains some mustard seeds, peppercorns, and a piece of horseradish.

Sealing the jars

After filling, close the jars with airtight lids. It is recommended to turn them upside down for a few minutes to create a better seal. Then, let them cool completely at room temperature.

Useful tips:

- You can also add other spices like garlic or dill to diversify the flavors.
- Ensure that the jars are perfectly clean and sterilized before filling them to avoid contamination.
- Pickled bell peppers can be enjoyed as a side dish to various meals or as an appetizer, making an excellent accompaniment to pies or meat dishes.

Nutritional values and benefits

Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamins C and A. Additionally, through the pickling process, they retain their nutrients, and the vinegar helps preserve them for a long time. This dish is ideal for those looking to improve their vegetable intake in their diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can I keep pickled bell peppers?
Pickled bell peppers can be kept for several months under proper storage conditions, in a cool and dark place.

2. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Of course! Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can add interesting flavors, but make sure to adjust the sugar amount according to the acidity of the chosen vinegar.

3. What other recipes can I combine with pickled bell peppers?
Pickled bell peppers pair perfectly with roasts, salads, stews, or even on a cheese tart. They can also be served alongside a refreshing drink, such as iced tea with lemon or flavored lemonade.

Personal notes

Pickled bell peppers always remind me of my grandmother, who used a similar recipe, and every filled jar was full of stories and memories. It is a dish that not only enhances meals but also brings the family together around the table, sharing moments of joy and tradition.

In conclusion, this recipe for pickled bell peppers is so simple and delicious that it will surely become one of your favorites. I encourage you to try it, add your personal touch to the recipe, and enjoy the flavors of these bell peppers every day! Enjoy your meal!