Pickled gherkins

Recipe: Pickled Green Tomatoes with Carrots and Peppers

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 1 week (preferably 2-3 weeks for a more intense flavor)
Total: approximately one week and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings (depending on the size of the jars)

Pickled green tomatoes are a delicious and healthy choice to add a touch of freshness and acidity to your meals. This preparation is simple, perfect for beginners, but also for those with experience who want to diversify their pickled reserves. The origins of pickling are ancient, practiced for centuries in various cultures as a way to preserve vegetables during the winter. These green tomatoes, along with carrots and peppers, offer not only a savory taste but also an explosion of colors in the jar.

Ingredients:

- 1.5 kg green tomatoes (some of the greenest and firmest)
- 5 carrots (medium, fresh)
- 4 peppers (red or yellow, according to preference)
- For the brine:
- 2 liters water
- 4 tablespoons salt (preferably non-iodized salt)
- 4 tablespoons vinegar (9% for a more intense flavor)
- Pepper to taste (whole or ground)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the carrots and washing them well along with the peppers and green tomatoes. It is important to ensure that all vegetables are fresh and firm to achieve the best results. The green tomatoes should be of approximately equal size for even pickling.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
After washing, cut the carrots into sticks of about 1 cm, and the peppers into slices or cubes, according to preference. The green tomatoes can be left whole or cut in half for quicker marination.

3. Preparing the brine:
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring to a boil. Once the water starts to boil, add the 4 tablespoons of salt and 4 tablespoons of vinegar. Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved. You can also add pepper – either whole or ground, depending on your preferences. Let the brine boil for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool.

4. Layering the vegetables:
In a clean jar or pickling bottle, layer the green tomatoes, carrots, and peppers. Make sure the distribution of the vegetables is even to allow for homogeneous marination. You can add a few whole peppercorns between the layers for extra flavor.

5. Adding the brine:
Once the brine has cooled, carefully pour it over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely covered. If necessary, you can add more water and salt in equal proportions to ensure complete marination.

6. Closing the container:
Put the lid on the jar or bottle and make sure it is tightly closed. Place the container in a cool, dark place. It is recommended to let the pickles mature for at least a week, but for a more intense flavor, let them sit for 2-3 weeks.

Practical tips:

- Check the condition of the vegetables: Ensure that the vegetables are whole and firm to avoid uncontrolled fermentation.
- Brine: If you want a more flavorful brine, you can add a few bay leaves or garlic.
- Pickle consistency: If you prefer crunchier pickles, add a slice of radish or a pinch of turmeric.

Nutritional benefits:
Green tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, providing a good supply of antioxidants. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, essential for eye health, while peppers add extra fiber and vitamins. Consuming pickles helps improve digestion and may contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables such as cucumbers, cabbage, or onions.

- How can I tell if the pickles are good?
Check for any unpleasant odor or mold. The pickles should have a pleasant tangy taste.

- How are they served?
Pickled green tomatoes are perfect as a side dish with grilled meat or in sandwiches, but they can also be a delicious ingredient in salads.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a unique touch, you can add herbs such as dill or oregano to the brine. You can also try adding a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.

These pickled green tomatoes are more than just a simple recipe; they are a way to preserve the taste of summer and enjoy them throughout the year. So, don’t hesitate to venture into this recipe! You can put your personal touch by adding your favorite ingredients. Enjoy!