Pickled bell peppers with cauliflower

Pickled Peppers and Cauliflower - Passion and Tradition in a Jar

If you're looking for a canning recipe that adds a splash of flavor to every meal, then pickled peppers and cauliflower are the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines tastes and textures but also evokes family memories and moments spent around the table. Cooking these delicious vegetables is a tradition passed down through generations, and now you have the chance to bring this joy into your own kitchen.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 10-12 jars

Basic ingredients:

- 3.5 kg bell peppers
- 1 large cauliflower
- 1 liter vinegar
- 180 g sugar
- 200 ml oil
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1-2 tablespoons peppercorns
- 4-5 bay leaves
- 250-300 ml water

Preparing the ingredients

1. Bell peppers: Choose firm, blemish-free peppers. Wash them well, remove the stems and seeds, then slice them into thick pieces about 1 cm wide. This will allow the peppers to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

2. Cauliflower: A fresh cauliflower is essential for a delicious pickle. Break it into small florets, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.

Preparing the marinade

3. Vinegar mixture: In a large pot, mix the vinegar, water, oil, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and torn bay leaves. This mixture is the soul of the recipe, so don't skimp on the ingredients.

4. Boiling: Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture reaches a boil. This will create a fragrant marinade, and the aroma will draw the whole family to the table.

Cooking the vegetables

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the marinade has started boiling, add two handfuls of bell peppers and one handful of cauliflower. Let them boil for 2-3 minutes, no longer, to maintain their crisp texture.

6. Transferring to jars: Using a spatula or ladle, scoop the vegetables from the pot and place them immediately into jars that have been thoroughly washed with warm water. It’s recommended to use sterilized jars to prevent contamination.

7. Filling the jars: After adding the vegetables, carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the peppers and cauliflower, filling the jars to within 1 cm of the top.

Completing the process

8. Sealing the jars: Ensure the jars are sealed tightly to prevent oxidation. You can use metal or plastic lids, but make sure they are of good quality.

9. Cooling the jars: Place the jars in a blanket, wrapping them well, and let them cool to room temperature for 24 hours. This is an important step that helps create a vacuum seal.

10. Storage: Once the jars have completely cooled, move them to a cool, dark place, ideal for preserving canned goods.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: For a more intense flavor, you can add a few cloves of garlic or hot peppers to the jars.
- Waiting time: It’s recommended to let the jars sit for at least 2 weeks before consuming, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Preservation: These pickled peppers and cauliflower can be stored for up to a year, but they taste best within the first 6 months.

Nutritional benefits

Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while cauliflower is rich in fiber and antioxidants. This combination not only adds flavor but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can experiment with carrots, cucumbers, or cabbage to vary the recipe.

2. How can I enhance the flavors?
Adding herbs like dill or thyme can provide a new and interesting taste.

3. How are pickled peppers and cauliflower consumed?
They are wonderful as a side dish with meats, in sandwiches, or as part of a festive meal.

This recipe for pickled peppers and cauliflower is not just a canning process; it's a true culinary art that will bring you joy with every jar you open. Whether you choose to serve them at a holiday meal or simply enjoy a healthy snack, these lovingly prepared vegetables will always bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones. So roll up your sleeves and transform your kitchen into a place of traditions and delicious flavors!