Mixed pickles

Mixed pickles – a classic and delicious recipe

Who doesn't love the sour and crunchy taste of mixed pickles? These delights are not only a perfect choice for holiday meals but also an excellent accompaniment for everyday dishes. Mixed pickles are a fantastic way to preserve fresh vegetables and transform them into intense flavors that delight our taste buds throughout the year. Let's embark on a culinary journey to discover together how to prepare these delicious pickles.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 24 hours
Number of servings: 8 jars of 500 ml

Ingredients:
- 2 kg bell peppers, sliced
- 2 kg green tomatoes, sliced
- 1 kg cauliflower, broken into florets
- 0.5 kg spring onions
- 1 kg vinegar (preferably 9%)
- 0.5 kg sugar
- 6 tablespoons coarse salt
- Fresh celery leaves (for flavor and decoration)

The history of pickles is fascinating. They have been used since ancient times as a method of preserving vegetables, as well as a way to add flavor to dishes. Mixed pickles, in particular, represent a combination of vegetables that offers a varied palette of flavors and textures.

Step by step, here's how you can prepare these mixed pickles:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
- Start by washing all the vegetables very well. It's essential to remove any impurities.
- After washing, slice the bell peppers and green tomatoes, and break the cauliflower into small florets. The spring onions can be left whole or cut in half, depending on preference.

2. Preparing the pickling solution:
- In a large pot, add the vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix the ingredients well to dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Bring the solution to a boil, then let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. The aroma will become intense and fill the entire kitchen.

3. Assembling the jars:
- In each clean, sterilized jar, place a celery leaf at the bottom. This will not only add flavor but also ensure a pleasant appearance.
- Then, add a layer of mixed vegetables: bell peppers, green tomatoes, cauliflower, and spring onions. Try to pack the vegetables as tightly as possible without crushing them.

4. Filling the jars:
- Once the jars are filled with vegetables, pour the hot vinegar solution over them, making sure the vegetables are completely covered. Leave a little space at the top for expansion.

5. Sealing and fermenting:
- Close the jars with the lids, but do not tighten them too much. Let them cool to room temperature before moving them to the pantry.
- Allow the pickles to ferment for 24 hours. After this period, you can move them to the fridge, where they will continue to mature.

6. Serving:
- After a week, the pickles will be ready to eat. Serve them alongside meat dishes, salads, or even as appetizers. A platter of cheeses and cold cuts is perfectly complemented by these mixed pickles.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best results. The taste and texture will be much more intense.
- Experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or cucumbers, to create unique combinations.
- If you prefer less sour pickles, reduce the amount of vinegar by 100-200 ml.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a few peppercorns, bay leaves, or sliced garlic.

Nutritional benefits:
Mixed pickles are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content. A serving of pickles (approximately 100 g) contains about 20 calories and is rich in fiber and antioxidants. They aid digestion and can contribute to gut health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I sterilize the jars?
- A simple method is to wash them well, then place them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes.

2. How long do pickles last?
- If stored properly, mixed pickles can last up to a year.

3. Can I use flavored vinegar?
- Yes, flavored vinegar will add a special touch to your pickles!

Mixed pickles are more than just a simple recipe for preserves; they are a part of our culinary culture, a way to keep the taste of summer throughout the year. So gather the ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s transform the vegetables into delicious and memorable flavors. Enjoy this recipe and all its variations!

 Ingredients: 2 kg sliced bell peppers, 2 kg sliced green tomatoes, 1 kg cauliflower florets, 0.5 kg scallions, 1 kg vinegar, 0.5 kg sugar, 6 tablespoons coarse salt, celery leaves