Pickled vegetables

Mixed Pickles - A Winter Delicacy

Mixed pickles are a culinary tradition cherished in many cultures, serving not only as a delicious accompaniment to various dishes but also as an excellent way to preserve garden vegetables and fruits. The preparation of pickles is a ritual that brings family and friends together, and each barrel hides a unique story. Let yourself be carried away by the enticing aroma of fermented vegetables and turn this process into a memorable experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 2-3 days in a warm place, then a few weeks in a cool place
Number of servings: variable, depending on consumption

Ingredients:
- 18 kg green tomatoes (red or green, depending on preference)
- 1 large cauliflower (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3 heads of red cabbage (of suitable size)
- 1 kg cucumbers (choose the largest ones)
- 4 quinces
- 4 apples
- 3 pears
- 3 kg celery
- 1.5 kg carrots
- ½ kg hot peppers (orange)
- ½ kg garlic
- ½ - ¾ kg horseradish
- Salt: 25 g / liter of water
- Black peppercorns: 1 packet
- A bunch of dried dill
- 3 onions (keep them whole)

The preparation of mixed pickles is a simple process, but it requires a bit of patience and careful organization. Follow the steps below, and you will achieve delicious, perfectly preserved pickles.

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables and fruits thoroughly under cold running water. Ensure they are free of impurities or spots and are in good condition. Green tomatoes are ideal for pickling due to their acidity and crunchy texture. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and the carrots into rounds. The horseradish and garlic can be left whole or cut into larger pieces to infuse their flavor into the brine.

Step 2: Arranging the vegetables in the barrel
Once all the ingredients are prepared, start arranging them in the 60-liter barrel. Begin with a layer of green tomatoes, followed by cauliflower, red cabbage, cucumbers, quinces, apples, pears, celery, carrots, hot peppers, garlic, horseradish, peppercorns, dill, and onions. Alternate the layers to achieve an even distribution of flavors. It is important to compress the vegetables so that there is no air between them, which will aid in fermentation.

Step 3: Preparing the brine
For the brine, boil water and dissolve salt in a ratio of 25 g of salt per liter of water. Allow the brine to cool to a temperature of 35-40 degrees Celsius before pouring it over the vegetables. This will help accelerate the fermentation process. Ensure the vegetables are completely covered by the brine, and excess air is removed.

Step 4: Fermentation
After pouring in the brine, cover the barrel with a lid or a clean cloth and leave it in a warm room for 2-3 days. This will allow fermentation to begin. Check daily to ensure the vegetables remain submerged and that no bacteria appear. If you see bubbles or foam, it is a good sign that fermentation is taking place.

Step 5: Moving to a cool place
After 2-3 days, move the barrel to a cool room, such as a pantry or cellar, where the temperature is lower. Fermentation will continue but will be slower, and the flavor of the pickles will become more complex and savory over time. Allow the pickles to ferment for a few weeks before consuming them.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include hot peppers in the recipe.
- Ensure that the barrel is made of suitable material, preferably wood or ceramic, to avoid chemical reactions.
- You can experiment with various combinations of vegetables and spices, adapting the recipe to personal tastes.
- Mixed pickles pair excellently with meat dishes, cheeses, or as appetizers alongside a refreshing drink.

Nutritional benefits:
Mixed pickles are not only delicious but also healthy. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to good digestion due to the probiotic bacteria generated during the fermentation process. They also help strengthen the immune system and can be a good source of antioxidants.

Calories:
Mixed pickles have a low caloric content, approximately 30-50 calories per serving, depending on the vegetable combinations used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
It is not recommended, as the texture of frozen vegetables will deteriorate during the fermentation process. Use fresh vegetables for the best results.
- How long can I keep the pickles?
If stored properly, pickles can last up to a year, but their flavor will be optimal in the first few months.
- Can I modify the proportions of the ingredients?
Sure! Experiment with different vegetables and spices to find the combination that delights you the most.

In conclusion, preparing mixed pickles is a pleasant and satisfying activity that will bring you together with your loved ones. Don't forget to share your results and talk about your experiences in the kitchen. So gather the ingredients, prepare the barrel, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of mixed pickles!