Ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh pepperoncini peppers
- 2 cups of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of sea salt
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Olive oil, for covering the peppers
Step 1: Preparing the Peppers
Start by washing the pepperoncini peppers thoroughly under cold water. Once cleaned, carefully remove the stems from each pepper. Make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the pepper’s heat, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Step 2: Pickling the Peppers
In a large pot, combine the white vinegar, water, sea salt, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the salt. Once boiling, add the pepperoncini peppers and let them simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Sterilizing the Jars
While the peppers are simmering, sterilize your jars to ensure proper preservation. You can do this by submerging them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove the jars from the water and let them air dry.
Step 4: Packing the Jars
Using tongs, carefully transfer the pepperoncini peppers from the pot to the sterilized jars, leaving about an inch of headspace. Once the jars are filled with peppers, pour olive oil into each jar until the peppers are completely covered.
Step 5: Sealing and Storing
Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any oil or residue. Place the lids on top and screw them tight. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks to allow the flavors to meld together. After opening a jar, make sure to refrigerate it to maintain freshness.
Step 6: Enjoying Your Homemade Pepperoncini
Your homemade pepperoncini in oil is now ready to be enjoyed! You can use these flavorful peppers in various dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and pasta. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite way to incorporate them into your meals.
So there you have it – a simple, step-by-step guide on how to make homemade pepperoncini in oil. Not only will you impress your friends and family with your homemade creation, but you’ll also have a delicious, spicy condiment to elevate your dishes. Happy cooking!