Mixed Pickles

Mixed pickles - A delicacy for the whole family

Mixed pickles are a traditional dish that not only adds flavor and color to the table, but also offers a true feast of aromas and textures. These preserved vegetables are ideal for accompanying everyday meals, as well as adding a touch of freshness to parties or special events. Today's recipe will guide you step by step in preparing delicious pickles, perfect for enjoying throughout the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 1-2 weeks (depending on preferences)
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 ml

Essential ingredients:
- 8 cucumbers
- 4 bell peppers
- 3 red peppers
- ¼ cabbage
- 6 green tomatoes
- 1 hot pepper
- 1 head of garlic
- 3 pieces of horseradish
- Fresh dill, to taste
- Mustard seeds
- Peppercorns
- Bay leaves
- Vinegar (preferably wine)
- Sugar
- Salt
- 2 liters of water

Steps for preparing mixed pickles:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under a stream of cold water. Ensure they are fresh and free of blemishes. The cucumbers and green tomatoes should be small and crunchy, while the bell peppers and red peppers should be meaty.

2. Boiling the water: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. This will be the base for the brine. Add sugar, salt, vinegar, bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds to the water. The quantities of these ingredients can vary depending on individual taste, but an approximate ratio would be: 200 ml of vinegar, 100 g of salt, and 100 g of sugar.

3. Blanching the vegetables: Once the water has started boiling, add the red peppers and bell peppers. Blanching them for 3-5 minutes will help preserve their color and texture. Then, remove the vegetables from the water and let them cool.

4. Arranging in jars: In sterilized jars, start arranging the vegetables. You can play with colors to create an appealing look: a layer of cucumbers, a layer of bell peppers, then some green tomatoes and peppers. Between layers, add slices of horseradish and a few cloves of garlic for an intense and aromatic flavor.

5. Adding the brine: Once you have filled the jars with vegetables, carefully pour the hot brine over them, ensuring all the vegetables are completely covered. It is important to leave a little space at the top of the jar for the expansion of the vegetables during fermentation.

6. Sealing the jars: Close the jars with their lids and leave them at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, depending on how sour you want your pickles to be. Occasionally check the jars and, if necessary, add more brine to keep the vegetables covered.

7. Storing and serving: After the fermentation period, move the jars to a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator. You can serve them alongside meat dishes, on cheese platters, or as a side to salads.

Useful tips:
- If you want to customize the recipe, you can add carrot sticks or radishes to diversify the textures.
- Instead of horseradish, you can use slices of fresh ginger for a slightly spicy flavor.
- Frequently check the pickles to ensure no foam forms on the surface, which may indicate improper fermentation. Remove this foam with a clean spoon.

Nutritional benefits:
Pickles are rich in probiotics, which are extremely beneficial for digestion and gut health. They also contain essential vitamins, such as vitamin C, as well as minerals that can help maintain a healthy immune system. Cucumbers, for example, are low in calories, making pickles an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can experiment with various vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, or onions.
- How long can I keep the pickles? If stored in a cool, dark place, pickles can last up to a year.
- How can I tell if the pickles are spoiled? If you notice an unpleasant smell or a sudden change in color, it is best to discard them.

Mixed pickles are a symbol of culinary tradition and an excellent way to preserve fresh vegetables. With this recipe, you will not only create a delicious dish but also bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every meal. So, embrace the art of preservation and enjoy these delicious mixed pickles throughout the year!

 Ingredients: 8 cucumbers, 4 bell peppers, 3 kapia peppers, a quarter of cabbage, 6 green tomatoes, 1 hot pepper, a head of garlic, 3 pieces of horseradish, dill, mustard seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, vinegar, sugar, salt, water