Pickled peppers

Pickled Peppers - A Classic Recipe for Preserving Summer

Pickled peppers are a delicacy that brings vibrant flavors and colors to every winter. These peppers, with their crunchy texture and balanced sweet-and-sour taste, are perfect for accompanying various dishes or enjoying on their own as an appetizer. Over time, this recipe has become a tradition in many families, serving as an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer and add a touch of freshness to winter meals.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 500 ml

Ingredients:
- 3 kg bell peppers
- 2 l water
- 700 ml vinegar (5% acidity)
- 100 g salt (adjustable to taste)
- 250 g sugar (can be adjusted according to preference)
- Black peppercorns (to taste)
- Bay leaves (1-2 for each jar)

Preparing the Peppers

The first step in this recipe is to prepare the peppers. Choose ripe peppers with smooth skin and no blemishes. This will ensure better preservation and a distinct taste. Wash the peppers under cold running water, removing any impurities. Then, remove the seeds and cut them into suitable pieces, about 2-3 cm. This size will allow for even marination and facilitate serving.

Boiling the Preserving Liquid

In a large pot, add the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the liquid to a boil. It is important that the salt and sugar dissolve completely in the liquid. At this stage, you can add peppercorns – they will provide an aromatic flavor to the preparation.

Once the liquid has started to boil, add the cut peppers. Allow them to boil for a maximum of two boils, no more, to avoid losing their crunchy texture. Use a spatula to gently stir them, ensuring that all the peppers are covered by the liquid.

Filling the Jars

After the peppers have boiled, remove them with a spatula and start placing them in the prepared jars. Try to pack them as tightly as possible without crushing them. After filling the jars with peppers, take the liquid from the pot and pour it over them, ensuring they are completely covered.

To add extra flavor, add a few peppercorns and a bay leaf to each jar. These will enhance the taste of the peppers during the preservation process.

Finalizing the Preservation Process

After filling the jars with peppers and liquid, leave them uncovered until the next day. This step is essential as it allows the liquid to stabilize and, if it has evaporated, to top up with the remaining liquid from the pot. If you notice that the liquid has decreased, don’t worry, it’s normal!

After a night has passed, seal the jars tightly, ensuring they are well sealed. Then, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. The preserved peppers will last up to 2 years, remaining crunchy and full of flavor.

Benefits of Peppers

In addition to their delicious taste, peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. These vegetables help strengthen the immune system and maintain healthy digestion. Consuming pickled peppers can add flavor to your diet without adding many calories – a serving of pickled peppers contains about 30 calories.

Chef’s Tip

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, try experimenting with different spices, such as coriander or chili, to create a spicy version of pickled peppers. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences – some prefer a tarter taste while others love sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen peppers?
It is recommended to use fresh peppers for the best results. Frozen peppers may lose their crunchy texture and flavor.

2. Is it necessary to pasteurize the jars?
For this recipe, pasteurizing the jars is not necessary as long as they are stored under optimal conditions.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the jars?
Of course! You can add carrots or onions for a more complex flavor combination.

Combining Pickled Peppers

Pickled peppers pair wonderfully as a side for cheese platters, alongside grilled meats, or in sandwiches. Additionally, a tasty appetizer can be made from a combination of pickled peppers with olives and feta cheese.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare pickled peppers, it's time to experiment and add your personal touch to this traditional recipe. The preserved peppers will bring joy to every winter meal, reminding you of warm summer days. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the flavors of your dishes together!