Pickled gherkins

Pickled green tomatoes with a summer aroma

Green tomatoes, those crunchy and firm fruits, are the stars of summer in many households. Not only can they be a delicious snack, but they are also an excellent way to preserve some of the vegetable harvest for winter. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to prepare aromatic pickled green tomatoes, enveloped in the flavors of spices and herbs.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooling time: 2-3 days (preferably)
Number of servings: 3 liters (enough to fill a large jar)

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg green tomatoes (choose firm and blemish-free ones)
- 2-3 hot peppers (for a touch of spice)
- 1 piece of horseradish (about 100 g, peeled and cut into strips)
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 10-15 black peppercorns
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or dried, but fresh has a more vibrant taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 100 ml vinegar (preferably wine or apple for a finer note)
- 3 liters of water
- 3 tablespoons of coarse non-iodized salt

Step 1: Preparing the green tomatoes
Start by washing the green tomatoes very well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities, as they can affect the taste of the pickles. Make sure they are well cleaned and blemish-free.

Step 2: Preparing the jar
Choose a clean and sterilized 3-liter jar. Place a few sprigs of thyme and dill at the bottom. These aromatic plants will infuse the green tomatoes with wonderful flavors during the pickling process.

Step 3: Arranging the ingredients
Place the green tomatoes in the jar, making sure to pack them as tightly as possible. Add the strips of horseradish and hot peppers among them, so the flavors blend perfectly. Look at the colors! The green of the tomatoes will combine splendidly with the red of the peppers and the white of the horseradish.

Step 4: Preparing the brine
In a large pot, add the 3 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add 3 tablespoons of coarse non-iodized salt and 100 ml of vinegar. These ingredients are essential for creating a perfectly balanced brine. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes for the salt to dissolve.

Step 5: Flavoring
After adding the salt and vinegar, add the bay leaves and peppercorns to the pot. These will add a distinct note to the pickles. Stir gently and let it boil for a few moments until the flavors combine.

Step 6: Pouring the brine
When the brine is ready, add a few pieces of horseradish on top of the green tomatoes in the jar. This step is crucial for ensuring an intense flavor. Pour the hot brine over the tomatoes, filling the jar to the brim.

Step 7: Sealing and cooling
After filling the jar, seal it tightly with a lid. Allow the jar to cool to room temperature, then store it in a cool, dark place. Ideally, you should let the pickled tomatoes sit for 2-3 days before consuming them. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become!

Nutritional benefits:
Green tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health and strengthening the immune system. Horseradish, besides its spicy flavor, has anti-inflammatory properties and is known for stimulating appetite.

Serving suggestions:
Pickled green tomatoes are a perfect accompaniment to meat dishes, but they can also be served alongside cheeses and cold cuts on an appetizer platter. Offer them with a glass of white wine or a cold beer, and the taste will be even more intense!

Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can also add other spices, such as dried dill or garlic. You can also add carrots or onions for a variety of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of green tomatoes?
Yes, you can use cucumbers, cauliflower, or carrots, adjusting the pickling time according to the chosen ingredients.

2. Where can I store the jar of green tomatoes?
It is best to keep them in a cool place, such as a pantry or cellar. Avoid direct sunlight exposure.

3. How long can I keep pickled green tomatoes?
If stored properly, pickled green tomatoes can last up to a year.

I conclude with a personal thought: cooking is an art that brings us together. Pickles are more than just simple dishes; they are memories of summer, family meals, and the joy of sharing. So, prepare your green tomatoes with love and don’t forget to enjoy them in the company of loved ones!