Pickled peppers are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any pantry, offering a tangy and slightly sweet kick that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, salads, sandwiches, and more. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to preserve your favorite colored peppers in a delicious pickling brine, with the option to customize the flavor with a variety of spices and ingredients. Let’s dive into the preparation steps and make these must-have pickled peppers for your kitchen!
Ingredients
- Peppers: 6 to 8 of your favorite color (red, yellow, green, or a mix), washed and dried
- Vinegar: 500 ml (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- Water: 300 ml
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons or 200 g (you can substitute with honey for a different flavor)
Optional Spices and Ingredients:
- Bay Leaves: For a subtle herbal note
- Peppercorns: For a mild peppery flavor
- Mustard Seeds: Adds a mild, tangy bite
- Cloves: For a warm, aromatic flavor
- Dill: Fresh or dried, for a classic pickling taste
- Chili or Hot Peppers: For a spicy kick
- Garlic or Onions: For added depth and flavor
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Clean and Cut: Thoroughly wash and dry the peppers. Remove the stems, seeds, and any white membrane. Cut the peppers into small pieces, cubes, or strips according to your preference. The shape and size will depend on how you like to enjoy them later.
Step 2: Prepare the Pickling Liquid
- Boil the Brine: In a large pot, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (or honey). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar have completely dissolved. This will be the pickling liquid that preserves the peppers.
- Add Spices (Optional): If desired, add spices like bay leaves, peppercorns, mustard seeds, cloves, dill, or chili to the boiling brine. This step allows you to customize the flavor of your pickled peppers to suit your taste.
Step 3: Fill the Jars
- Sterilize the Jars: Ensure your jars and lids are thoroughly sterilized to prevent any contamination. This can be done by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot cycle in the dishwasher.
- Pack the Peppers: Carefully pack the prepared pepper slices, cubes, or strips into the sterilized jars. Pack them tightly but without crushing the peppers, allowing a bit of room for the pickling liquid to fully cover the peppers.
- Pour the Brine: Pour the hot pickling liquid over the peppers in the jars, making sure the peppers are completely submerged. Use a spoon or spatula to press down lightly on the peppers, releasing any air bubbles that might be trapped. If using additional spices, distribute them evenly among the jars.
Step 4: Seal and Store
- Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars clean, then place the sterilized lids on top and seal tightly. Allow the jars to cool at room temperature.
- Storage: For the best flavor, store the pickled peppers in the refrigerator for about two weeks before consuming. This allows the peppers to fully absorb the flavors of the brine. However, if you can’t wait, they can be enjoyed after at least 48 hours of pickling.
Serving Suggestions
- With Grilled Meats: Pickled peppers add a tangy contrast that complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, beef, or pork.
- In Salads: Add them to fresh salads for a burst of color and flavor.
- On Sandwiches and Burgers: Layer pickled peppers on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps to add a zesty, crunchy bite.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them straight from the jar as a low-calorie, flavorful snack.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, adjust the amount of sugar or honey in the brine. Less sugar will result in a tangier pickle, while more will sweeten the flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or allspice berries for a more complex aroma.
- Long-Term Storage: If you wish to store your pickled peppers for a longer period outside the refrigerator, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are shelf-stable.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: Varies based on the number of peppers used
- Calories: Approximately 10 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: Varies based on the amount of salt used
- Sugars: Varies based on sweetener used
Pickled peppers with garlic and your choice of spices are a versatile and flavorful addition to your kitchen, bringing a burst of tangy goodness to a wide range of dishes. Easy to make and customize, they are sure to become a staple in your annual canning routine. Enjoy the delightful crunch and vibrant taste of homemade pickled peppers, and savor the satisfaction of preserving your own pantry staples!