Pickles with everything

Colorful Pickles – A Symphony of Flavors and Aromas

Mixed pickles are a true feast for the senses, bringing a vibrant palette of colors and an explosion of aromas in every jar. These preserved delights are not only a perfect accompaniment to everyday meals but also a wonderful way to keep fresh vegetables for the cold season. The preparation of pickles is an ancient tradition passed down from generation to generation, serving as an excellent way to add flavor and freshness to our meals.

In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the most delicious pickles, full of vitamins and minerals. The total preparation time is approximately 2 hours, and the final quantity will be about 5 liters, enough to fill two 2.5-liter jars and one 3-liter jar.

Necessary Ingredients

Vegetables:
- Cauliflower (1 medium piece)
- Red bell peppers (2-3 pieces)
- Cucumbers (3-4 pieces)
- Carrots (2-3 pieces)
- Green and red cherry tomatoes (5-6 pieces)
- Hot peppers (1-2 pieces, depending on how spicy you want them)
- Garlic (3-4 cloves)
- Celery leaves (a few)
- Horseradish (a 10 cm piece)
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
- Dried dill (1 teaspoon)
- Black peppercorns (1 teaspoon)
- Mustard seeds (1 teaspoon)
- Bay leaves (2-3)

For the liquid:
- Water (2 liters)
- Vinegar (600 ml)
- Salt (3 tablespoons)
- Sugar (4 tablespoons)

Step by Step – Your Guide to Perfect Pickles

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Choose fresh vegetables without spots or signs of damage. Cut the bell peppers into slices, and break the cauliflower into florets. Carrots can be sliced into rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.

2. Blanch the vegetables: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sliced bell peppers. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes, then remove and let them cool. This step helps preserve the color and crunchiness of the vegetables.

3. Arrange the vegetables in jars: Place the vegetables in jars, alternating colors for an attractive appearance. Add the celery leaves, sliced garlic, whole or sliced hot peppers, and cauliflower florets. Be creative! You can also add a few slices of horseradish for a more intense flavor.

4. Prepare the pickling liquid: In another pot, combine the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. This marinade will enhance the flavor of your pickles.

5. Fill the jars: Once the pickling liquid has boiled, let it cool slightly, then pour it over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring that all the vegetables are covered. This step is essential to prevent bacterial growth.

6. Seal the jars: Check the edges of the jars to ensure there are no vegetable residues. Close the jars with their lids and make sure they are well sealed. Then, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry.

7. Waiting and enjoying: Here comes the hardest part: waiting! Let the pickles sit for at least 2-3 weeks for the flavors to meld. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.

Practical Tips

- Vegetable choices: You can experiment with different types of vegetables, such as cabbage, radishes, or even mushrooms. Each vegetable adds a unique note to your pickles.
- Flavoring: Add spices like cumin or fennel for a distinctive flavor.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy pickles, you can add more hot peppers or even a dash of dried chili to the pickling liquid.
- Serving: These pickles are excellent alongside meats, sandwiches, or even as a side for a salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can pickles be stored for more than a year?
Yes, if stored properly, pickles can be consumed for several years. Make sure the jars are airtight and stored in a cool place.

2. How can I tell if the pickles have spoiled?
If you notice signs of mold, an unpleasant smell, or a change in color, it’s best not to consume them.

3. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Of course, apple cider vinegar can add an interesting sweet-and-sour note to your pickles.

Nutritional Value

Pickles are an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (calcium, potassium). Additionally, consuming pickles can aid digestion due to the probiotics they contain.

In conclusion, preparing mixed pickles is a pleasant and creative activity that will bring you satisfaction and joy. Besides the nutritional benefits, it will connect you with culinary traditions and loved ones. So, dare to experiment and personalize your recipe, and the results will surely please the whole family!