Pickled cucumbers with cauliflower and bell peppers

Pickled cucumbers with cauliflower and peppers - A delight you'll fall in love with

Who can resist a jar full of pickled cucumbers, crunchy cauliflower, and juicy peppers? This dish is not just a simple recipe, but a tradition that brings not only flavors but also pleasant memories to your table. Pickled cucumbers are often associated with festive meals, as well as family moments, when everyone helps prepare delicacies for winter. Get ready to transform your vegetables into a true culinary treasure!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Marinating time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 5 hours
Servings: 20 jars of 5 liters

Ingredients:
- 20 kg cucumbers
- 2 kg cauliflower
- 2 kg peppers
- 800 ml vinegar (9 degrees)
- 4 packets of pickling mix (Hungarian solution)
- 24 tablespoons of sugar (6 for each packet of mix)
- 1 packet of bay leaves

Preparing the pickles:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the cucumbers, cauliflower, and peppers thoroughly. Ensure that the vegetables are fresh and firm, as this will influence both the taste and texture of the pickles. The cucumbers should be medium-sized, and the peppers should be meaty and juicy, to add a touch of sweetness.

Step 2: Cutting the vegetables
The cucumbers can be left whole or sliced, depending on your preferences. The peppers are cut into wedges, and the cauliflower is broken into small florets. This will add a crunchy texture and an attractive appearance to your jars.

Step 3: Preparing the pickling solution
In a large pot, bring 4.5 liters of water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the pickling mix and 6 tablespoons of sugar for each packet. Add the bay leaves as well. Let the solution boil for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, then remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Adding the vinegar
Once the solution has cooled, add 800 ml of vinegar. This will provide a sour taste and help preserve the vegetables.

Step 5: Filling the jars
Place the cut vegetables into jars, alternating between cucumbers, cauliflower, and peppers. Once the jars are filled, pour the warm solution over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely covered. Wait for 3-4 hours, during which the vegetables will begin to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Topping off the jars
After the waiting time has passed, check if the solution has decreased. If so, top up with more solution to ensure the vegetables are covered. This step is essential, as the vegetables absorb the liquid, and it is important that they remain submerged.

Step 7: Sealing the jars
Once you have topped off the jars, seal them well, either with the original lids or with plastic wrap. Ensure they are airtight to prevent air from entering.

Step 8: Storing
Place the jars in a cool, dark place, where they can ferment for a few weeks. Then, you can move them to the pantry for long-term storage.

Useful tips:
- Use sterilized jars to prevent contamination.
- You can also add other spices, such as mustard seeds or horseradish, for extra flavor.
- If you like spicier pickles, you can add some hot peppers to the jars.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and fiber, while peppers provide a significant amount of vitamin C. These vegetables are low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

Personalized version:
For a unique touch, you can try adding some carrot or celery slices, which will provide an interesting flavor and additional texture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long can I keep the pickles?
Pickled cucumbers can be stored for several months, and their taste improves over time.

2. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can experiment with vegetables like carrots, onions, or zucchini.

3. How can I serve the pickles?
Pickled cucumbers with cauliflower and peppers are perfect as a side dish with meat dishes, but they can also be a delicious snack alongside cheeses or fresh bread.

This recipe for pickled cucumbers with cauliflower and peppers is not just a simple dish, but a cooking experience that will connect you to traditions and bring you closer to your loved ones. So gather your family and friends and enjoy this preparation process together!