Pickled Cherry Peppers
Enjoy the tangy and spicy flavors of homemade pickled cherry peppers. These crunchy and vibrant peppers are perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes or enjoying straight out of the jar. With this simple recipe, you can easily preserve the freshness of cherry peppers and elevate your culinary creations.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cherry peppers
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
- Wash the cherry peppers thoroughly and drain them.
- In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, garlic, salt, sugar, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the cherry peppers to the boiling liquid and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer the peppers in the liquid for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool.
- Transfer the cherry peppers and the liquid into clean, sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before consuming.
How to Prepare:
Pickled cherry peppers make a versatile condiment that adds a delightful flavor to various dishes. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Slice the pickled cherry peppers and use them as a topping for pizzas, salads, or sandwiches.
- Add a few chopped pickled cherry peppers to your pasta or rice dishes for an extra zing of flavor.
- Blend the pickled cherry peppers with mayonnaise or cream cheese to create a flavorful spread for crackers or bagels.
- Incorporate the pickled cherry peppers into your homemade salsa for a spicy twist.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Servings:
This recipe yields approximately 4 small jars of pickled cherry peppers.
Nutrition Facts:
As pickled cherry peppers are primarily used as a condiment, the nutrition facts may vary based on serving size and consumption.
Tips:
- Choose firm and brightly colored cherry peppers for the best results.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer peppers during the pickling process.
- For a sweeter variation, substitute some of the white vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
- Label and date your jars for easy identification and storage.
FAQs:
Q: How long can I store pickled cherry peppers?
A: When stored properly in a cool, dark place, pickled cherry peppers can last for up to 1 year.
Q: Can I reuse the pickling liquid?
A: Yes, you can reuse the pickling liquid for other recipes or to pickle other vegetables. Make sure to bring it to a boil before using it again.
Q: Are pickled cherry peppers spicy?
A: Cherry peppers have a moderate level of spiciness. If you prefer milder flavors, you can remove the seeds before pickling.
Enjoy the burst of flavor and heat that pickled cherry peppers bring to your meals with this simple and delicious recipe. This versatile condiment will surely become a staple in your pantry, adding a touch of tanginess and spice to your favorite dishes.
