Pickled Gogasari (Motan's recipe)

Pickled Peppers – a traditional and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a simple and quick recipe to preserve peppers, you have come to the right place. Pickled peppers are a delicacy that adds flavor to any meal, and their preparation is a true art. This recipe will not only provide you with a delicious snack but will also take you on a journey of culinary memories, with a rich history in the traditions of homemakers from various corners of the world. Get ready to discover how you can create jars full of crunchy peppers, perfect for enjoying alongside a roast or in a salad.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 5-6 jars of 800 ml

Ingredients

- 6 kg peppers
- 3 roots of horseradish
- Celery leaves (4-5 leaves for the entire quantity)
- For the marinade:
- 1 L wine vinegar (9%)
- 5 L water
- 1 tablespoon salt per liter of mixture
- 5 tablespoons sugar per liter of mixture
- 5-7 peppercorns per liter of mixture
- 1 bay leaf per liter of mixture
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds per liter of mixture

Preparation technique

Step 1: Preparing the peppers

1. Wash the peppers under a cold water stream to remove impurities.
2. Remove the veins and seeds. This is an important step to ensure that the peppers will have a crunchy texture.
3. Cut the peppers into strips about 2 cm wide. They will fit nicely in the jars and be easy to eat.

Step 2: Preparing the horseradish

1. Peel the horseradish roots and cut them into 4 cm pieces and quarters. The horseradish will add a distinct flavor and a bit of spiciness.

Step 3: Marinade

1. In a large pot (12 liters), add 1 L of vinegar and 5 L of water.
2. Add salt, sugar, peppercorns, bay leaf, and mustard seeds according to the specified quantities.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blanching the peppers

1. When the marinade starts boiling, add the peppers and let them boil for 3-4 minutes after the marinade starts bubbling again (cover the pot with a lid).
2. Remove the peppers from the pot and let them cool slightly in a saucepan.

Step 5: Preparing the jars

1. Wash the jars well and sterilize them in the oven (at 100°C for 15-20 minutes) to prevent contamination.
2. Let the jars cool.

Step 6: Filling the jars

1. In each jar, place celery leaves at the bottom and a teaspoon of mustard seeds.
2. Arrange the peppers in the jars, gently tapping to remove air between the vegetable strips.
3. On top, add more celery leaves and 3-4 quarters of horseradish.

Step 7: Filling with marinade

1. Reheat the remaining marinade and fill the jars with hot liquid.
2. Gently shake the jars to remove air from inside and top off with marinade.
3. Put on the lids.

Step 8: Sterilization process

1. Place the jars on some knives inside a large pot.
2. Wrap them in newspapers and add water up to just below the lids.
3. Boil the jars for 30 minutes after the lids become hot. This step is crucial for preserving the preparation.

Step 9: Cooling and storage

1. Remove the jars from the water and wrap them in a blanket.
2. Let them cool for 1-2 days in a dark and cool place before storing them in the pantry.

Useful tips

- The peppers you choose should be firm and hard, without spots or bruises. They will keep better and provide a crunchy texture.
- For an extra flavor, you can add a few coriander seeds or slices of hot pepper in each jar.
- Check the jars after a few days to ensure they have sealed well; the lid should not pop up when pressed.

Nutritional benefits

Peppers are low in calories, having about 20 calories per 100 g, and are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Eating peppers can help boost the immune system and maintain digestive health.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can I keep the jars of pickled peppers?
- Pickled peppers can be kept for 2 years, but they are best consumed after about 3 weeks from preparation.

2. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of wine vinegar?
- Yes, but the flavor will be different; wine vinegar provides a finer and more complex note.

3. What can I do with the peppers after I open them?
- You can use them in salads, as a side for roasts, or even for sandwiches.

Delicious combinations

Pickled peppers pair perfectly with a juicy pork roast or a bean dish. You can enjoy a jar alongside a potato dish or even with a savory pie. Also, if you want a drink to complement this snack, I recommend a dry white wine or a cold beer to balance the spicy flavors of the peppers.

Now that you have all the details and necessary steps, it's time to get to work! Pickled peppers are a simple recipe but with a delicious impact. I challenge you to try them and share the result! Enjoy your meal!