Make-Ahead Rassolnik Base for Winter

Slice the yellow onions into half-moons.

Peel the carrots and grate them on a coarse grater.

Pre-boil the pearl barley until almost tender. If you prefer, you can use rice instead of barley.

Grate the pickles on a coarse grater or dice them into small cubes.

In a large pot, combine the pickles, carrots, and onions.

In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato paste, vegetable oil, sugar, and salt, then pour this mixture over the vegetables.

Place the pot over the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the pre-cooked pearl barley (or rice) and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Pour in the vinegar, stir well, and immediately remove from the heat.

Pack the hot base into pre-sterilized jars.