Pickled bell peppers in honey and vinegar

Pickled Peppers in Honey and Vinegar - A Winter Delicacy

Pickled peppers in honey and vinegar are undoubtedly one of the most flavorful and healthy pickling options for winter. This simple yet flavorful recipe adds a touch of sweetness and an unmistakable taste, turning every meal into a memorable experience. Moreover, the no-boil preparation method retains vitamins and minerals, making these pickles not only delicious but also healthy.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Maceration time: 1 day
- Total time: 1 day and 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 8 jars of 1 liter

Ingredients

- Peppers: 8 kg (choose firm, healthy peppers without blemishes)
- Cauliflower: 1 piece (make sure it is fresh)
- Carrots: 3 pieces (sweet carrots add a wonderful flavor)
- Honey: 2 kg (opt for natural honey, preferably local)
- Vinegar: 1300 ml (1 liter and 330 ml, use quality vinegar)
- Various spices:
- Bay leaves (4-5 pieces)
- Mustard (2 tablespoons)
- Pepper (whole, to taste)
- Salt (1 tablespoon)
- Allspice (1 teaspoon)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Wash the peppers under cold running water. Remove the seeds and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on the desired size.
- Break the cauliflower into small florets and peel the carrots, slicing them thinly. These vegetables will add not only texture but also a pleasant taste to the pickles.

2. Preparing the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the honey with the vinegar. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to mix well, ensuring the honey completely dissolves in the vinegar. This is the secret to a flavorful pickle with a balanced taste!

3. Mixing the Vegetables:
- Place the peppers, cauliflower florets, and carrot slices in a large container. Pour the honey and vinegar marinade over them, mixing well to ensure each piece is coated. It's essential that the vegetables are well saturated with the liquid.

4. Maceration:
- Divide the mixture into 3 equal portions. Cover the vegetables with plastic wrap or a lid and let them macerate at room temperature. Every 3 hours, gently stir to allow the liquid to evenly reach all the vegetables. You will notice how the peppers start to release their juices, and the mixture becomes richer.

5. Jarring:
- After a day and night of maceration, prepare the jars. Ensure they are clean and dry. Arrange the vegetables nicely in the jars, topping off with the liquid obtained from maceration. It is normal to have a lot of liquid – this will help preserve the pickles.

6. Sealing the Jars:
- Place the lids on the jars (if you do not have enough lids, using plastic wrap with an elastic band is an excellent alternative). Ensure the jars are airtight to prevent any contamination.

7. Storage:
- Place the jars in a cool place, ideally in a cellar or on a balcony, where the temperature is consistent. These pickled peppers in honey and vinegar will be ready to consume after a few weeks but can also be stored for winter.

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing Ingredients: Ensure you use fresh vegetables, free from blemishes or defects. Fresh peppers and cauliflower will ensure a crunchy texture and delicious taste.
- Spice Varieties: Experiment with other spices, such as cumin or coriander, to add a personal touch.
- Using Honey: Honey not only enhances the flavor but also has natural antibacterial properties, helping to preserve the pickles.
- Delicious Combinations: These pickled peppers in honey and vinegar pair perfectly with grilled meat dishes, sandwiches, or salads. They can also be an excellent accompaniment to cheese platters.

Nutritional Benefits

Peppers are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while honey adds energy and nutritional properties. These pickles are healthier than many other canned options due to the absence of refined sugar and the simple preservation process.

Conclusion

So now that you know how to prepare pickled peppers in honey and vinegar, don't hesitate to include them in your winter menu! With a sweet and sour flavor, these pickles are not only delicious but also healthy, making them an ideal choice for the whole family. Experiment with ingredients and spices to find the perfect combination that will delight your taste buds! Enjoy!