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MIXED VEGETABLE PICKLE (CIOLUMADA) — COLORFUL, CRISPY, AND FLAVORFUL WINTER FAVORITE

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MIXED VEGETABLE PICKLE (CIOLUMADA) — COLORFUL, CRISPY, AND FLAVORFUL WINTER FAVORITE

MIXED VEGETABLE PICKLE (CIOLUMADA) — COLORFUL, CRISPY, AND FLAVORFUL WINTER FAVORITE

This traditional Romanian ciolomada is a vibrant mix of fresh cucumbers, bell peppers, pickling tomatoes (gogonele), onions, and shredded cabbage, marinated with vinegar, sugar, and salt. Its crisp texture and balanced tanginess make it an ideal homemade preserve for winter months, perfect served as a side or snack.

🕒 Prep Time: 20 min + 1 day marinating

🍽️ Yields: About 10 jars (800 g each)

Ingredients

  • 3 kg cucumbers
  • 2 kg bell peppers (choose as colorful as possible)
  • 2 kg pickling tomatoes (gogonele)
  • 1 kg onions
  • 1 small cabbage (about 1 kg), thinly shredded
  • ½ kg sugar
  • ½ liter vinegar (5–6%)
  • 3 tbsp salt
  • 1 preservative packet (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables

  • Chop all vegetables finely, slicing cabbage into thin ribbons.
  • In a large container, combine all vegetables with sugar, vinegar, salt, and preservative (if using).
  • Mix well.

2. Marinate

  • Cover and let the mixture rest for 24 hours, stirring several times during this period.
  • The vegetables will release enough liquid to cover themselves, making them ready for jar filling.

3. Jar Filling and Preservation

  • If using preservative, pack the mixture into clean jars and seal tightly.
  • Without preservative, sterilize jars by placing them in a 200°C (390°F) oven for about 20 minutes.
  • Fill sterilized jars with the vegetable mixture, seal, and then boil the sealed jars in water (water level just below jar lids) for 5–10 minutes to ensure preservation.

💡 Tips

  • Use colorful bell peppers for visual appeal and flavor complexity.
  • Stir during marinating to evenly distribute flavors and liquids.
  • Sterilizing jars and boiling sealed jars ensures longer shelf life without preservatives.
  • Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste for sweeter or tangier results.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Winter pantry staples and homemade preserves
  • Accompanying hearty Romanian meals
  • Tasty side dishes or snacks
  • Gifts of homemade pickled vegetables

📝 Final Thoughts

Romanian ciolomada is a flavorful, crunchy vegetable medley preserved to enjoy all year round. Its bright colors and balanced acidity make it a standout addition to any meal or snack table.