Pickled peppers in cold brine

Cold pickled bell peppers - a traditional recipe, full of flavor and vibrant colors, that will turn any meal into a feast! This dish is perfect for preserving the taste of summer in every jar, and the combination of crunchy bell peppers, spices, and aromas will delight your taste buds. Moreover, it is an excellent way to enrich winter meals. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 24 hours
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients:
- 5 kg bell peppers (choose firm, good quality peppers without spots or damage)
- ½ liter of vinegar (preferably white wine vinegar for a finer taste)
- ½ kg sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 5 tablespoons of salt (non-iodized salt is recommended to avoid discoloration)
- Peppercorns (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on how spicy you like it)
- Mustard seeds (1-2 tablespoons for a distinct flavor note)
- Celery leaves (about 5-6 large, fresh leaves)

Necessary utensils:
- A large bowl for mixing
- A deep plate for the sugar and salt mixture
- Sterilized glass jars (preferably 1 liter)
- A sharp knife
- A spatula or wooden spoon

A brief history of the recipe:
Pickled bell peppers are an essential part of culinary traditions, being a popular dish in many cultures. This method of preserving vegetables has been used for generations, providing not only a source of food during winter but also a way to add colors and flavors to winter meals. These pickled vegetables are often associated with family cooking and festive meals, becoming a symbol of traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Preparing the bell peppers:
1. Wash the bell peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to clean them of any impurities and pesticides, especially if they are not from organic sources.

2. Seed removal: Cut the bell peppers in half, then remove the seeds and stem. Cut each half into four pieces to achieve slices of the desired size.

3. Salt and sugar mixture: In a plate, mix the sugar with the salt. This mixture will help extract juices from the bell peppers and will add a delicious taste to the dish.

4. Sprinkling the mixture: Place the bell pepper pieces in a large bowl and evenly sprinkle the salt and sugar mixture over them. Make sure each piece is covered.

5. Adding the vinegar: Drizzle the bell peppers with vinegar. This will not only add flavor but will also help preserve the vegetables. Gently mix everything so that the bell peppers are well coated.

6. Marinating: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the bell peppers sit at room temperature for 24 hours. This time allows the bell peppers to release their juices and marinate.

Bottling the bell peppers:
1. Preparing the jars: Before starting, make sure the jars are well sterilized. This is essential to prevent contamination and ensure proper preservation.

2. Adding the celery leaves: Place a celery leaf at the bottom of each jar. This will add extra flavor and help preserve the dish.

3. Arranging the bell peppers: Carefully place the bell pepper pieces in the jar, interspersing with peppercorns and mustard seeds for an intense flavor. Fill the jars to the top, leaving a small space at the mouth of the jar.

4. Adding the juice: Pour the juice released by the bell peppers in the bowl over the vegetables, filling each jar. Ensure all pieces are covered with liquid.

5. Sealing the jars: Close each jar with a clean lid. Ideally, use new lids for a proper seal.

6. Storing: Place the jars in a cool, dark place suitable for preservation. You can check the bell peppers after about a week, but it is best to wait a few weeks to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Useful tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as cauliflower or carrots, to diversify the flavor of the dish. Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with bell peppers and adds a crunchy texture.
- Replace the wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a sweeter flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a few dried hot peppers in each jar.

Nutritional benefits:
Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet. Consuming pickled vegetables can aid digestion and maintain a healthy gut flora.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I keep the bell peppers in the fridge?
Yes, after opening the jars, the bell peppers can be kept in the fridge for a few weeks. Make sure they are covered with liquid.

2. How can I use the bell peppers in recipes?
Pickled bell peppers can be used as a side dish for meats, in salads, sandwiches, or even in various winter dishes like stews.

3. Why is it important to sterilize the jars?
Sterilizing the jars prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring long-term preservation of the bell peppers.

Serving and combinations:
To enhance the flavor of pickled bell peppers, you can serve them alongside a cheese platter or a cheese tart. An ideal drink to complement this meal would be a fresh white wine or a craft beer.

These pickled bell peppers are not only a simple recipe but also a delicious way to add a touch of summer to every winter meal. Try making them and discover the charm of home cooking!