Mini Pickled Zucchini

 Ingredients: 250 g of mini zucchini, 1 small carrot, 1/2 onion, 1 clove of garlic, 2-3 pieces of hot pepper, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, a few peppercorns, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of coarse salt, a pinch of ground ginger, 75ml of vinegar (4.5%), 75ml of water.

To prepare a delicious zucchini pickle, start by boiling a pot of water with a little salt to ensure a special flavor for the vegetables. In the meantime, carefully wash the zucchinis under cold running water to remove any impurities. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the zucchinis and let them boil for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to soften the zucchinis, preparing them for the pickling process. After 5 minutes, remove the zucchinis from the water and let them drain in a colander to eliminate excess water.

While the zucchinis cool, you can prepare the other ingredients. Cut the carrot into small pieces so that it integrates perfectly into the pickle jars. The onion will be sliced into small pieces, and the hot pepper can be left whole or cut into rings, depending on your preference. In a sterilized jar, place the garlic, carrot, and onion, interspersing them with the zucchinis. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed to achieve a balanced flavor.

To prepare the marinade, in a pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, spices (such as peppercorns, bay leaves, and dried dill), water, and a bit of salt. Put the mixture on the heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. After the marinade has boiled a few times, carefully pour it over the zucchinis and the other vegetables in the jar. It is important that all the ingredients are completely covered by the marinade to allow the flavors to infuse.

After pouring the marinade, seal the jars tightly and ensure they are well sealed. Then, store them in a cool place away from direct sunlight. It is recommended to let the pickles marinate for at least a week before consuming them, to allow the flavors to develop and intensify.

This zucchini pickle can be served alongside grilled meats or as a side dish to various dishes. The tangy flavor and crunchy texture will add an extra touch of flavor to any meal. Enjoy your meal!

 Tags:  onion garlic carrots pepper zucchini sugar pickles gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes vegetarian recipes fat-free recipes