Pickled peppers

Pickled Peppers – A Traditional Recipe for Every Winter

Pickled peppers are a true delicacy, a classic recipe that brings a touch of magic to winter meals. These sweet peppers, preserved in vinegar, are not only a perfect side dish but also a versatile ingredient that can transform any meal into a feast. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing you with useful details and tips to achieve the tastiest pickled peppers, perfect for enjoying throughout the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 24 hours
Total time: Approximately 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars

The Story of Pickled Peppers

This recipe for pickled peppers has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a method of preserving vegetables that dates back centuries. The entire pickling process allows the vegetables to retain their flavor and texture, transforming into tangy delights that can be enjoyed throughout winter. The sweet and sour taste of pickled peppers pairs perfectly with meat dishes or can be used as an ingredient in delicious salads.

Necessary Ingredients

- 5 kg of peppers
- 1 liter of vinegar (ideally, use a quality 9% vinegar)
- 750 g of sugar
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery root
- 2 tablespoons of fine salt
- 10-12 peppercorns
- 2 bunches of horseradish (for added crunch)

Preparing the Peppers

Step 1: Washing and Preparing the Peppers

Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Then, clean them of seeds and cut them into quarters. This will not only help them absorb the marinade better but also make the preservation process easier.

Step 2: Preparing the Marinade

In a basin or large container, add 1 liter of vinegar, 750 g of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of fine salt. Mix these ingredients well until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. It is important to carry out this step patiently, as a quality marinade will make a difference in the final taste of the pickled peppers.

Step 3: Marinating the Peppers

Once the marinade is ready, add the cut peppers to the basin. Mix everything well, ensuring that each piece of pepper is covered with the marinade. Cover the basin with a piece of paper and let the peppers sit in their own sauce for 24 hours, stirring three times during this period. This stage is crucial as it allows the peppers to absorb the flavors and soften slightly.

Bottling the Peppers

Step 4: Arranging in Jars

After the peppers have been in the marinade for 24 hours, it’s time to transfer them to jars. Choose clean, dry jars, preferably sterilized. Place a few slices of carrot, some celery leaves, and a few pieces of horseradish at the bottom of each jar. These not only add flavor but also help maintain the crunchiness of the peppers throughout winter.

Step 5: Filling the Jars

Fill the jars with the marinated peppers, being careful to press them down gently to remove air. Top up with the marinade left from the peppers, ensuring that each jar is full, but leave a small space at the top. This space allows for the liquid to expand during storage.

Step 6: Sealing the Jars

After filling the jars, seal them tightly with sterilized lids. It is recommended to sterilize the jars and lids before filling to prevent bacterial growth.

Useful Tips

- Choose quality peppers: Make sure to select firm peppers, free from spots or defects. They will have a better taste and texture.
- Experiment with spices: You can add other spices, such as garlic, thyme, or dill, to add various flavors to the peppers.
- Storage: Store the jars in a dark, cool place. The peppers will be ready to consume in a few weeks, but the flavor will be even better after a few months of storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can pickled peppers be stored? Pickled peppers can be stored for 1-2 years if stored properly.
- Can I use other types of vinegar? Yes, you can use apple cider or wine vinegar, but make sure to follow the proportions to maintain a balanced taste.
- How can I use pickled peppers? Pickled peppers are delicious alongside roasts, in salads, or even as appetizers. You can add them to sandwiches or burgers for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Values

Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are low in calories. They also contain fiber, making them a healthy accompaniment to your meals. A serving of pickled peppers (approximately 100 g) contains about 50 calories.

A Personal Note

This recipe for pickled peppers reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would prepare jars full of peppers every fall. The house would smell of vinegar and sugar, and we would gather around the table, eagerly waiting to taste the preserved goodies. I encourage you to share this experience with your loved ones, to create beautiful memories around the table, and to enjoy the flavor of winter together.

I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit! Pickled peppers are a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring a smile to the faces of everyone who tastes them.