Beetroot Salad for Winter
Ingredients: - approximately 10 kg of red beet - approximately ½ l of 9-degree food vinegar - 3-4 pieces of horseradish (the thickness of a thumb), grated or diced - sugar, to taste (approximately 300-350 g) - 4-5 teaspoons of cumin seeds - approximately 2 l of water
Choosing red beets is essential for achieving a delicious and flavorful preservation. Opt for small, dark red beets, preferably round in shape. They are less fibrous than conical ones, being juicier and having a shorter cooking time. Before starting the cooking process, wash the beets well under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, place the beets in a pot of cold water, ensuring they are completely covered. Add hot water if necessary to keep the beets submerged during boiling. The beets are ready when a fork easily pierces them. After boiling, let the beets sit in the water until the next day to cool gradually.
Once cooled, drain the beets and peel them. You can cut them into cubes or grate them, depending on your personal preference. Prepare clean, sterilized jars and layer the beets, sprinkling grated horseradish over each layer. Horseradish not only adds a distinct flavor but also helps in preserving the preparation. You can also add a few cumin seeds for extra flavor.
In a separate pot, bring water with cumin seeds to a boil. Once the water boils, add sugar and vinegar to taste. It is important to adjust the proportions so that the liquid has a pleasant flavor, similar to that of lemon lemonade, sweet enough to delight your taste buds. Once the mixture has boiled, let it cool.
After the syrup has cooled, carefully pour it over the beets in the jars, ensuring that you eliminate all the air from inside the jar. This step is crucial to prevent fermentation. Once the jars are filled, seal them well with double cellophane or staple them. Store the jars in the pantry, but do not hesitate to taste the preparation right away to enjoy its fresh and delicious flavor. This recipe will not only provide you with a healthy snack but also an excellent condiment for various dishes, perfect for adding a splash of color and flavors to your meals.
