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Mixed Pickles: The Delight of Preservation

Mixed pickles are a symbol of the autumn season and the culinary traditions that connect us to our roots. These dishes are not just a way to preserve fresh vegetables, but also an explosion of flavors that can transform any simple meal into a remarkable tasting experience. With a combination of crunchy vegetables and aromatic spices, pickles can add a touch of freshness and a delicious contrast to meat dishes or can even be served as appetizers.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: enough for 10 liters of pickles

Ingredients:

- 1 medium cabbage (shredded)
- 5-6 bell peppers (washed and seeded)
- 4-5 chili peppers (washed and seeded)
- 500 g green tomatoes (washed)
- 500 g cucumbers (washed)
- 1 piece horseradish (peeled and sliced)
- 150 ml vinegar (preferably wine vinegar)
- 10 tablespoons coarse salt
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 6-8 celery leaves
- 2-3 sprigs of thyme
- 2-3 sprigs of dill with seeds
- 2-3 bay leaves
- a few peppercorns

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Vegetables
Start by shredding the cabbage and placing it in a large container. Add a little salt and mix well. This step will help the cabbage soften and release water, facilitating the fermentation process. Ideally, let the cabbage sit overnight.

2. Preparing the Peppers
Wash the bell peppers and chili peppers. Cut them in half and remove the seeds. Sprinkle a little salt on them and let them sit until the next day. This will help them soften, making them easier to fill later.

3. Filling the Vegetables
Once the cabbage has sat long enough, drain the excess water. Mix the cabbage with a little vinegar for added acidity. Fill the bell peppers and chili peppers with the cabbage mixture.

4. Preparing the Jar
Choose a large jar, ideally 10 liters. Start by adding mustard seeds, celery leaves, thyme sprigs, and dill to the bottom of the jar. These will provide flavor to the pickles.

5. Arranging the Vegetables in the Jar
Add a layer of stuffed bell peppers, followed by a layer of cucumbers, then a layer of green tomatoes. Fill the empty spaces with stuffed chili peppers and strips of horseradish. Add a piece of beetroot for a nice color to the pickles. Continue layering until the jar is full, making sure to leave a little space at the top.

6. Preparing the Brine
Measure the amount of water needed to fill the jar (about 5-6 liters) and bring it to a boil. Add salt, vinegar, sugar, bay leaves, and peppercorns. When the water starts to boil, pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jar, ensuring they are completely covered.

7. Fermentation
Cover the jar with a lid or a piece of cheesecloth and leave it in a cool, dark place for 24 hours. After this period, your pickles should be ready to enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

- Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables, free from blemishes or defects. The quality of the vegetables is essential for delicious pickles.
- Brine: You can adjust the ratio of salt and vinegar according to your taste. If you prefer tangier pickles, add more vinegar.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or radishes. You can also add herbs like marjoram or oregano for a different flavor.
- Serving: Mixed pickles are perfect alongside meat dishes, making them an ideal accompaniment for roasts or stews. You can also add them to salads for an extra crunch.

Nutritional Benefits:
Pickles are rich in probiotics, which help maintain gut health. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals from the vegetables contribute to a balanced diet. However, consumption of pickles should be moderate, considering their high salt content.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other spices?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various spices, such as fennel seeds or coriander, to achieve a unique flavor.

- How long can I keep the pickles?
If stored in a cool place, pickles can last for several months. Make sure they are completely covered with brine to prevent excessive fermentation.

- How can I tell if the pickles are spoiled?
Check the jar for signs of mold or an unpleasant smell. If you notice either of these, you should discard the pickles.

Mixed pickles are not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that connects you with traditions and the autumn season. So, prepare to enjoy the rich flavors and the crunch of fermented vegetables! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: cabbage-peppers-gogosari-tomatoes-cucumbers-horseradish-vinegar-salt-mustard-seeds-thyme-dill-a piece of red beet-celery leaves-sugar-bay leaves-peppercorns