Sides
Bosnian Pickled Vegetables
Ingredients
- - 300 g (10.5 oz) small cauliflower florets
- - 200 g (7 oz) carrots, sliced
- - 150 g (5 oz) green tomatoes, quartered
- - 2 green chillies, whole
- - 500 ml (2 cups) water
- - 500 ml (2 cups) white wine vinegar
- - 2 tbsp salt
- - 1 tbsp sugar
- - 2 bay leaves
- - 1 tsp mustard seeds
Method
- Pack the cauliflower, carrots, green tomatoes and chillies tightly into a sterilised jar.
- Combine the water, vinegar, salt, sugar, bay leaves and mustard seeds in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
- Pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jar, covering them completely.
- Seal the jar and cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate, or store in a cool pantry, for at least 1 week before eating to allow full pickling.
Introduction:
Turšija is the Balkan answer to winter preservation, a jar of mixed pickled vegetables prepared in the
autumn to bring crunch and acidity to the table through the colder months. Nearly every Bosnian
household keeps a jar on hand as an everyday side.
Cultural Background:
Turšija is the Balkan answer to winter preservation, a jar of mixed pickled vegetables prepared in the autumn to bring crunch and acidity to the table through the colder months. Nearly every Bosnian household keeps a jar on hand as an everyday side.
Tips:
Pack vegetables tightly so they stay submerged under the brine. Use a clean, sterilised jar to prevent spoilage during storage.
Variations:
Add sliced cabbage wedges for a more traditional mixed turšija. Adjust chilli quantity for a milder or spicier result.
Vegetarian/Vegan:
Fully vegan as written.
Storage:
Unopened, keeps in a cool pantry for several months; once opened, refrigerate and use within 4 weeks.
Reheating:
Not applicable; served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition:
Approx. 25 kcal, 1 g protein, 5 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat per serving.
FAQs:
Q: How long before turšija is ready to eat?
A: At least one week for good flavour, though many households let it mature for a month.
Q: Can other vegetables be added?
A: Yes, turšija is flexible; peppers, green beans and small onions are all common additions.
Q: Why did my jar turn cloudy?
A: This can indicate fermentation activity or spoilage; if the smell or appearance is off, discard the batch.