Gaby
Zucchini is packed with several types of carotenoids—beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein. This vegetable is beneficial for the eyes, heart, and skin, and it can also help protect men from prostate cancer. In winter, the high vitamin C content in zucchini (19 mg per 100 g of the fruit) becomes especially important, as it helps prevent vitamin deficiency and boosts the immune system. Apples, too, are valuable for their antioxidants: these fruits contain soluble fiber, polyphenols, and flavonoids. An apple can lower harmful cholesterol levels, prevent artery blockage, and ward off heart disease. Apples are rich in vitamins A, C, B1, B2, PP, E, as well as a wide array of essential minerals: potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, calcium, selenium, and phosphorus. This vitality booster will help you stay energized during winter and combat stress and fatigue.
Ingredients: zucchini – 4 kg, sour apples (such as “Antonovka” or “Semerenko”) – 6 pieces, vegetable oil – 300 g, tomato paste – 300 g, sugar – 1 cup, minced garlic – ½ cup, salt – ½ cup, bay leaves – 10 pieces, allspice – 5 berries, cloves – 5 pieces.
Grate the zucchini and apples on a coarse grater or cut them into strips. In half a liter of boiling water, dissolve the tomato paste, then add sugar, salt, spices, and oil. Mix well and simmer for 30 minutes along with the zucchini and apples. Add the garlic 10 minutes before it’s done. Immediately pack the hot salad into sterilized jars and seal with lids.
Life Hack
For sterilizing small jars, they should be held over steam for 7 minutes; jars of 1-2 liters should be sterilized for 10-15 minutes, and larger jars of 3 liters or more for 20-25 minutes. You can conclude the sterilization process when large droplets of water appear on the inner walls of the jars. A special device that holds the jars can make the process easier for homemakers. This sterilizer looks like a lid with one or several holes.
