Pickled peppers

Pickled Peppers - a classic and delicious recipe for winter

I propose a recipe for pickled peppers that will turn any meal into a feast of flavors, even on the coldest winter days. These peppers combined with vinegar, sugar, and spices are perfect as a side dish or as an ingredient in various dishes. Additionally, this recipe will remind you of the tastes of childhood, when our grandmothers used traditional techniques to preserve vegetables.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars

Ingredients:

- 6 kg of peppers
- 3 tablespoons of coarse salt (heaped)
- 500 g of sugar
- 1 liter of vinegar
- 250 ml of oil
- Peppercorns (about 20)
- Bay leaves (4-5 leaves)
- 1 root of horseradish (about 200 g)

Here’s how you can achieve the best pickled peppers:

Step 1: Preparing the peppers

Start by washing the peppers under cold running water. Then, cut them into quarters, removing the seeds and stems. This step is crucial as it ensures that the peppers are clean and ready to be preserved. After cutting, let them drain well so that excess water does not affect the preservation process.

Step 2: Preparing the brine

In a large pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, oil, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. This brine will give the peppers that characteristic sweet-sour taste of the dish.

Step 3: Blanching the peppers

When the brine starts to boil, add the peppers, one batch at a time. Quick blanching will help preserve the color and texture of the vegetables. Let them sit in the brine for about 2-3 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spatula and let them cool on a cooking rack or a clean towel.

Step 4: Jar filling

When the peppers have completely cooled, prepare the jars. I recommend using sterilized jars to prevent contamination. Place the peppers in the jars upside down so you can add more. Each jar should contain 2-3 thin slices of horseradish, which will add extra flavor and potential antibacterial properties.

Step 5: Pouring the brine

Pour the hot brine (in which the peppers were blanched) over the vegetables, making sure they are completely covered. This step is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria and to maintain the fresh taste of the peppers.

Step 6: Sealing the jars

After pouring the brine, tightly close the jars with lids. Ensure they are airtight to protect them from air and moisture. Store them in a pantry, in a cool and dark place, where they will retain their flavor for several months.

Step 7: Waiting

Now comes the hardest part: waiting! It is recommended to let the peppers marinate for at least two weeks before tasting them. During this time, the flavors will intensify, and the taste will become irresistible.

Nutritional benefits and calories

Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C and A. They also contain antioxidants that can help strengthen the immune system. A serving of pickled peppers (about 100 g) has about 50-60 calories, making them a healthy choice to add flavor to your meals.

Serving suggestions

Pickled peppers are versatile and can be served alongside various dishes. You can use them as a side for meats, salads, or even sandwiches. They also pair perfectly with cheeses and cold cuts, adding a pleasant contrast of flavors and textures.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
Of course! Although pickled peppers are the most popular, you can also experiment with other types of peppers, such as hot peppers or bell peppers.

2. What else can I add to the brine?
You can add spices like garlic, dill, or other herbs to customize the flavor.

3. How long can I keep the peppers in jars?
If stored correctly, the peppers can be kept for up to a year or even longer. Make sure the jars are airtight and show no signs of damage.

4. How can I use pickled peppers in other recipes?
Pickled peppers are excellent in salads, as a topping for pizza, or in stir-fry dishes. They can also be used to add a delicious flavor to sauces or dressings.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get to work! Prepare these pickled peppers and enjoy their flavor throughout the winter. Don’t forget to share them with friends, as cooking is an art that should be savored together!