What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of fresh turnips
- 1 cup of white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt
- 1 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
Step 1: Peel and Slice the Turnips
Start by peeling the turnips and removing any brown spots or blemishes. Once peeled, slice them into thin rounds or julienne strips. The choice is yours, as long as the pieces are of a similar size for consistency during fermentation.
Step 2: Salt and Squeeze the Turnips
In a large bowl, transfer the sliced turnips and sprinkle them with sea salt. Use your hands to massage and squeeze the turnips gently. This process helps to soften them and release excess moisture, which is crucial for the fermentation process. Let the turnips sit for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flavors
After the 30-minute wait, rinse off the excess salt from the turnips and transfer them to the clean glass jar. Add whole black peppercorns and a bay leaf to the jar. These ingredients will infuse the turnips with additional flavors.
Step 4: Fermentation Time
Pour white wine vinegar into the jar until it covers the turnips completely. The vinegar acts as a preservative and starter for the fermentation process. Seal the jar tightly with the lid and store it in a cool, dark place for two weeks.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Brovada
After two weeks, your Brovada is ready to be enjoyed! Open the jar and marvel at the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that have developed during the fermentation process. Serve the Brovada as a side dish or use it as a condiment to enhance the flavors of various dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats and cheeses.
Tips for Success
- Make sure the turnips are completely submerged in the vinegar to prevent spoilage during fermentation.
- Use high-quality vinegar for the best results. Wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be excellent choices.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to personalize the flavors of your Brovada.
- Store the opened jar in the refrigerator to preserve the flavors and prolong the shelf life.
Now that you have mastered the art of preparing Brovada, it’s time to impress your family and friends with this unique and savory delicacy. Whether you enjoy it on its own or use it to elevate your favorite dishes, Brovada is sure to become a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.