Russian Pickled Tomatoes

A simple homemade recipe for Russian-style pickled tomatoes ready in just 4 days. They turn out juicy, tangy, and full of flavour, with a perfect balance of saltiness and light sweetness. The longer they sit, the better they taste 

Ingredients

• 1 kg “plum” tomatoes (ripe but firm)

• 5 cloves garlic

• 3 bay leaves

For the brine

• 1 liter water

• 1 tbsp (heaped)salt

• 1 tbsp (heaped) sugar

Steps

1. Wash the tomatoes

2. Prick each tomato several times with a toothpick

3. Cut the garlic cloves in half

4. Layer the tomatoes in a bowl, alternating with garlic and bay leaves

Brine

5. Bring water to a boil, add salt and sugar, and stir until fully dissolved

6. Let the brine cool slightly, then carefully pour it over the tomatoes

7. Cover with cheese cloth, then a plate, and place a weight on top

8. Leave at room temperature for 4 days until ready

Store the finished tomatoes in the brine in the refrigerator