Pickled bell peppers for winter

Pickled peppers for winter

Winter is the season when we enjoy the flavor of pickled vegetables, and pickled peppers are undoubtedly one of the most appreciated homemade delicacies. This simple and delicious recipe not only adds a splash of color to the plate but also enriches festive meals with an unmistakable taste. Moreover, pickled peppers are an excellent choice to accompany various dishes, from roasts to salads.

Total preparation time: 1 day
Active time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10-12 jars

Ingredients:
- 5 kg of peppers
- 1 l of vinegar
- 700 g of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of salt
- 1-2 tablespoons of mustard seeds
- 1-2 tablespoons of peppercorns
- a few bay leaves
- horseradish root (peeled and cut into thin sticks)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well under a stream of cold water to remove impurities. After washing, remove the stems and seeds. Cut them into slices, with the thickness of the slices being a personal choice (usually, slices of about 1-2 cm are ideal).

2. Preparing the marinade: In a large pot (about 10 liters), add the sugar, vinegar, and salt. These ingredients are essential for creating a savory mix that will preserve the peppers and add a special flavor. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until the sugar and salt completely dissolve.

3. Adding the peppers: After the marinade is well mixed, add the pepper slices to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to mix well, ensuring that each slice is evenly coated with the marinade. Here you can also add the peppercorns, mustard seeds, and bay leaves, which will enhance the flavors.

4. Letting it sit: Cover the pot with a lid or a clean towel and let the mixture sit overnight. During this time, stir occasionally to ensure that the peppers absorb the flavors well. It's a perfect moment to enjoy a glass of wine or prepare another pickling recipe.

5. Bottling: The next day, prepare the jars. Make sure they are well washed and sterilized. Use a jar of appropriate size, depending on the amount of peppers you have. Fill each jar with the pepper slices, making sure to add the horseradish sticks for extra flavor. Pour the liquid left in the pot over them, ensuring the peppers are completely covered.

6. Sealing and storing: Seal the jars with lids and store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. The pickled peppers will be ready to consume after a few weeks, and the flavor will intensify over time.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the peppers: When selecting the peppers, opt for the freshest and crunchiest ones. A healthy appearance of the vegetables will contribute to better preservation.
- Spice variations: You can experiment with various spices, such as garlic, chili pepper, or even thyme, to create a personalized marinade.
- Labeling the jars: Don't forget to label the jars with the preparation date and contents to better organize yourself throughout the winter.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Pickled peppers are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants. Although they contain sugar and salt, moderate consumption brings digestive benefits due to the natural probiotics generated during fermentation. A serving (about 100g) of pickled peppers contains around 50-60 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of vinegar? Yes, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used to add a distinct flavor, but make sure to keep the correct proportions for preservation.
- How long do pickled peppers last? If stored properly, pickled peppers can last up to a year.
- How can I use pickled peppers in recipes? Pickled peppers are perfect as a side for roasts, in sandwiches, or even added to salads for a tangy and crunchy taste.

Serving suggestion:
Pickled peppers are especially delicious alongside a juicy pork or beef roast. You can prepare a fresh salad with feta cheese and olives, where the pickled peppers will provide a perfect contrast between sweet and sour.

Now that you have this pickled pepper recipe, all that’s left is to get started! Whether you prepare them for yourself or as a gift, they will bring joy and flavor to every meal. Enjoy your meal!