Spicy carrot stew

Spicy Carrot Pickles: A Winter Delicacy

Who doesn't love the taste of pickles? This spicy carrot pickle recipe is perfect for adding a splash of color and flavor to every winter meal. The inspiration for this recipe comes from my godmother, a talented cook who has managed to turn every meal into a celebration. This pickle is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from roasts to salads, and is easy to prepare, even for beginners.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 24 hours
Number of Servings: 14 jars of 370 ml

Necessary Ingredients:
- 3 kg of carrots
- 3 kg of bell peppers (mixed colors for an attractive look)
- 2 kg of onions
- 250 g of chili peppers (adjustable according to preferences)
- 400 ml of vinegar (9%)
- 150 g of sugar
- Salt to taste (about 1-2 tablespoons)

Preparing the Ingredients:
1. Carrots: Peel the carrots and grate them using a coarse grater. They will add a crunchy texture to the pickles.
2. Peppers: Cut the bell peppers into cubes and the chili peppers into rings. If you prefer a less spicy pickle, you can reduce the amount of chili or omit it completely.
3. Onion: Chop the onion finely or pass it through a meat grinder. If you choose the manual method, make sure to have protective glasses on hand for the inevitable tears!

Mixing the Composition:
1. In a large bowl, combine all the prepared vegetables: grated carrots, bell peppers, chili peppers, and onions.
2. Add the salt, sugar, and vinegar. Mix everything carefully, ensuring that the vegetables are well coated with the spices.
3. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours. This process is essential for allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

Bottling:
1. After the mixture has rested for 24 hours, stir again to even out the juice formed.
2. Fill the jars with the vegetable mixture, leaving a little space at the top.
3. Close the jar lids tightly. No boiling is necessary, which makes this recipe extremely simple and accessible.

Storing the Pickles:
Keep the jars in a cool, dark place, preferably at room temperature. These pickles will be ready to enjoy after a few days, but for a more intense flavor, it is recommended to wait at least a week.

Practical Tips:
- If you want to customize the recipe, you can add other ingredients such as garlic or dill to enhance the flavors.
- This spicy pickle pairs wonderfully with grilled meat dishes, sandwiches, or even salads.

Nutritional Benefits:
Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, important for eye health. Onions provide anti-inflammatory benefits, while chili peppers can boost metabolism. This pickle is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with cauliflower, cucumbers, or even radishes.
- How long do the pickles last? If stored properly, they can last for several months. Make sure the jars are tightly sealed.
- How can I make the pickles less spicy? Simply adjust the amount of chili peppers or use sweet peppers instead.

Serving and Combinations:
These spicy carrot pickles are excellent alongside a juicy roast or a serving of polenta. You can also enjoy the pickles as an appetizer with cheeses and cold cuts. A refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or lemonade, will perfectly complement the meal.

Conclusion:
Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get to work! Preparing this spicy carrot pickle is not just a culinary activity but also a way to bring a bit of summer flavor into your winter meals. Use this recipe as a base and don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to give it a personal touch. Bon appétit!