Pickled Grapes
Ingredients: 3 kg of large black grapes (Hamburg) - cloves - 1 l vinegar - 250 ml water - 1 kg sugar
To prepare a delicious grape preserve, we start by picking the grapes from the bunch with the help of scissors. It is very important to leave the stems on each grape, as they not only provide a pleasant appearance but also help maintain the freshness of the grapes throughout the entire preserving process. After we finish cutting, the grapes must be washed carefully under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities or pesticides.
Once the grapes are clean, we prepare to place them in 800-gram jars, making sure to arrange them evenly to maximize space and avoid overcrowding. Each jar will receive 2-3 cloves, which will add a pleasant aromatic note and a slightly spicy and exotic taste. The flavors of cloves blend perfectly with the sweetness of the grapes, providing a delicious contrast.
Now, let’s focus on preparing the syrup, which is essential for preserving the grapes. In a large pot, we combine 1 liter of vinegar, 250 ml of water, and 1 kg of sugar. These ingredients are mixed well and placed over medium heat, making sure to stir constantly to completely dissolve the sugar. Once the syrup reaches boiling point, we let it boil for a few minutes to intensify the flavors.
For those who prefer a less sour taste, there is also an alternative syrup option, which consists of 750 ml of vinegar, 500 ml of water, and 1 kg of sugar. This combination will provide a milder and sweeter flavor, ideal for those who are not fans of vinegar.
Once the syrup is ready, we pour it hot over the grapes in the jars, ensuring that they are completely covered. We cover the jars with lids and let them cool at room temperature. The preserving process will be completed by sterilizing the jars in a large pot of boiling water for 15-20 minutes, to ensure that all bacteria are destroyed and that the grapes will remain good for a long time.
After the jars have completely cooled, we can store them in a cool, dark place, where they can be enjoyed during the winter, providing an explosion of taste and aroma in every jar. These grape preserves will bring summer memories to your table, even on the coldest winter days.
