Ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh chili peppers (any variety you prefer)
- 2 cups of white vinegar
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 4 garlic cloves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash the chili peppers thoroughly and remove the stems. If you prefer your pickled peppers to be less spicy, you can also remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and garlic cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. While the brine is heating, pack the chili peppers tightly into sterilized jars. You can use mason jars or any glass jars with airtight lids.
4. Once the brine has come to a boil, carefully pour it over the chili peppers in the jars, ensuring all the peppers are completely submerged.
5. Seal the jars tightly with the lids and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Your homemade spicy pickled chili peppers are now ready to be enjoyed! They can be used in various dishes such as sandwiches, tacos, salads, or as a garnish for your favorite meals.
Tips:
- Experiment with different chili pepper varieties to discover your preferred level of heat and flavor.
- Feel free to add other spices such as peppercorns, coriander seeds, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile.
- Make sure to sterilize the jars properly to prevent any bacterial growth. You can do this by boiling the jars and lids in water for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher cycle.
Enjoy the tangy and spicy goodness of your homemade pickled chili peppers! You can store them in the refrigerator for up to six months for long-lasting pleasure. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and add a kick to your dishes with these zesty delights!