MEMORIES OF MACEDONIA ~ TURSHIJA / Turšija (Pickled / Fermented Vegetables)

vinegar

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity flavor and is often considered healthier.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey offers natural sweetness with additional flavor.

black peppercorns

🥗Healthier: white pepper

💰Cheaper: ground black pepper

White pepper provides a milder flavor.

bay leaves

💰Cheaper: dried thyme

Dried thyme can substitute for a different herbal note.

Prepare an array of vegetables including cauliflower, green tomatoes, yellow peppers, hot peppers, carrots, and cucumber. Cut them into desired sizes, leaving some whole if preferred.

Clean the jars with soapy hot water and then rinse with boiling water for sterilization.

In a pot, add filtered water and bring it to a boil. If using tap water, ensure it is boiled to remove chlorine.

Add ground kosher salt to the boiling water and stir until dissolved. Taste the brine and adjust salt or water as needed based on preference.

Once the salt is dissolved, let the brine cool slightly while preparing the jars.

In a sterilized jar, place a sprig of dill, a couple of cloves of garlic, and bay leaves at the bottom.

Pack the prepared vegetables tightly into the jar, ensuring they are submerged in the brine later.

Add dill seeds if using, and more garlic if desired, then place cabbage leaves on top to help keep the vegetables submerged.

Pour the warm brine over the packed vegetables until they are fully covered.

Seal the jar with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for a few days before refrigerating.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary