Mixed salad for winter

Winter Mixed Salad Recipe – A Jarred Delight

Creating a mixed salad for winter is a tradition filled with flavor and joy, reminding us of moments spent with family. This recipe is inherited, a true pantry treasure, combining the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables. With each jar, you'll fill your winter with vitamins and delicious tastes. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 2 jars of 10 kg each

Ingredients

For the salad:
- 5 kg red cabbage
- 6 kg white cabbage
- 3 kg carrots (preferably fresh)
- 2.5 kg bell peppers (choose meaty peppers for a more intense flavor)
- Salt to taste

For the preserving liquid:
- About 6 l water
- 600 ml vinegar (preferably wine or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (to balance the acidity)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 5-6 bay leaves
- Peppercorns (about 10-15 peppercorns)

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the red and white cabbage into thin strips or, if available, use a special grater for cabbage. Slice the carrots thinly, and cut the bell peppers into slices. Ensure the vegetables are fresh, as their quality influences the final taste of the salad.

2. Massage the cabbage with salt:
Place the chopped cabbage in a large bowl and add salt to taste. Massage the cabbage with your hands to help release its juices. This step is essential as it helps preserve the vegetables and enhances their flavor. I recommend not overdoing the salt, as you can adjust it later in the preserving liquid.

3. Mixing the vegetables:
Once the cabbage has been massaged, add the sliced carrots and bell peppers. Mix the ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the preserving liquid:
In a large pot, add water, vinegar, sugar, salt, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Place the pot on the stove and bring to a boil. When the mixture reaches boiling point, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This step will infuse the liquid with the flavors of the spices.

5. Filling the jars:
Prepare clean, dry jars. Start filling the jars with the vegetable mixture, pressing down gently but not too much, to allow air to escape. Leave about 2-3 cm of space at the top of the jars to add the liquid.

6. Adding the preserving liquid:
Pour the hot liquid over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely covered. It is important for the liquid to be hot to create a vacuum as it cools.

7. Sealing the jars:
Close the jars with their respective lids and make sure they are well sealed. Wrap the jars in blankets or towels and let them cool slowly. This process helps maintain the flavors and preserves the vegetables.

8. Storage:
Once the jars have cooled completely, store them in the pantry. Here, the mixed salad can be kept for a winter full of flavors.

Practical tips

- Variety of ingredients: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as celery or radishes, to add diversity and flavor to your salad.
- Using salt: If you prefer a tangier taste, you can adjust the amount of vinegar in the liquid, but be careful not to overdo it.
- Healthy preservation: This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent accompaniment for winter meals. Cabbage is a good source of vitamin C and fiber, while carrots provide a boost of beta-carotene.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can the mixed salad be stored?
The salad can be kept in the pantry for 6-12 months if sealed properly.

2. Can it be consumed immediately after preparation?
Although the salad can be consumed immediately after preparation, the flavors develop better after a few weeks of fermentation.

3. Can I modify the recipe?
Absolutely! Use combinations of vegetables you like or add your favorite spices to personalize the recipe.

Serving

This mixed salad pairs perfectly with meat dishes like stuffed cabbage rolls or roasts. It can be served as a side dish or as a fresh salad alongside a cheese platter. You can also combine it with a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or even a spring cocktail.

Each jar of mixed salad is a piece of your memories, a way to bring summer into winter. So get ready to savor moments filled with taste and warmth in every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 5 kg red cabbage 6 kg white cabbage 3 kg carrot 2.5 kg bell pepper Salt to taste For the broth: About 6 l water 600 ml vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons salt 5-6 bay leaves Peppercorns

 Tags:  mixed salad for winter