Pickled peppers with coriander

Pickled bell peppers with coriander - Delicious preservation recipe

Pickled bell peppers are a delicacy that reminds us of winters spent with loved ones. This dish not only enriches festive meals but also adds a touch of freshness on chilly days, making it a perfect accompaniment for meat dishes. Let's embark together on the adventure of preparing this classic recipe, with a unique taste and an inviting aroma.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 jars of 500 ml

Essential ingredients:
- Fresh bell peppers (about 1 kg)
- 9-degree vinegar (about 500 ml)
- Water (about 500 ml)
- Non-iodized salt (50 g for 1 l of liquid)
- Honey (1 tablespoon for 1 l of liquid)
- Peppercorns (1-2 tablespoons, to taste)
- Coriander seeds (1-2 tablespoons, to taste)
- Mustard seeds (optional, 1 tablespoon)
- Celery leaves (a few, for flavor)

Ingredient details:
The bell peppers should be fresh and healthy, without signs of damage. This will ensure quality preservation. The 9-degree vinegar is ideal for achieving a balanced taste, and the honey will add a subtle note of sweetness, perfect for contrasting with the acidity of the vinegar. Celery leaves not only add flavor but also an appealing look to the dish.

Step by step: Preparing pickled bell peppers

1. Washing and preparing the bell peppers:
Wash the bell peppers well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove impurities. Then, dry them with a clean towel and cut them into 4 or 6 pieces, depending on their size.

2. Arranging in jars:
Take the 500 ml jars and wash them well, then let them dry. Place a few celery leaves at the bottom of each jar. Pack the cut bell peppers into the jars, pressing them down slightly to avoid air pockets.

3. Preparing the pickling liquid:
In a large pot, measure the amount of water you used to cover the bell peppers. Discard half of this water and top up with vinegar. Add the peppercorns, coriander, mustard seeds (if using), and salt to the pot. Bring the liquid to a boil.

4. Adding the honey:
Once the liquid has boiled, turn off the heat and add the honey. Stir well until it is completely dissolved.

5. Pouring the liquid over the bell peppers:
Using a ladle, pour the hot liquid over the bell peppers in the jars, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave a small space of 1-2 cm at the top.

6. Sealing the jars:
Place the lids on the jars, tightening them well. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Once completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar.

Serving suggestions:
Pickled bell peppers with coriander are wonderful as a side dish with freshly fried sausages and creamy mashed potatoes. They can also be used in salads or as appetizers, alongside cheeses or various cold cuts. A delicious combination would be to serve them with a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:
- Ensure the jars are completely clean to prevent contamination.
- Bell peppers can also be added to other dishes, such as stews or soups, to enhance flavor.
- Experiment with other spices, such as garlic or chili, to create a spicy version of the recipe.

Nutritional information:
Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, providing an important supply of antioxidants. Additionally, the vinegar used has digestive benefits, aiding digestion and helping maintain a healthy gut flora. Moreover, honey adds an extra energy boost due to its natural sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of vinegar? Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, but the taste will vary.
- How long do pickled bell peppers last? If stored correctly, pickled bell peppers can be consumed for up to a year or even longer.
- What can I do if I don't have celery leaves? You can omit the celery leaves or replace them with other herbs, such as dill.

This recipe for pickled bell peppers with coriander is not only a traditional method of preservation but also an opportunity to bring summer flavors to your table on cold winter days. I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal!