Red bell pepper foam by Laura Calder

Red bell pepper foam - a symphony of flavors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 12 hours
Total time: 12 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

A delicate yet flavorful recipe, red bell pepper foam is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. This recipe, inspired by the talented Laura Calder, will transform your meal into a culinary feast. The intense flavors of roasted peppers blend perfectly with the creamy texture of sour cream, offering an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

The history of this recipe is tied to the tradition of vegetable dishes, which have been used over time to bring freshness and vitality to the diet. Red bell pepper foam is not only a delicious choice but also a creative way to include vegetables in your diet.

Ingredients

- 1 large onion
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 4 roasted red bell peppers, chopped
- 500 ml chicken or beef broth (you can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 packets powdered gelatin
- 400 g sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the large onion. Make sure you have all the ingredients measured and ready to avoid any confusion during cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a deep pot, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes. It is important not to burn it, as this will alter its taste.

3. Adding the garlic: Add the chopped garlic cloves and continue to sauté for one minute, until its aroma is released. You will feel the entire room fill with an inviting fragrance.

4. Preparing the peppers: Incorporate the chopped roasted red bell peppers and the tomato paste. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Let everything simmer on low heat for a few minutes.

5. Adding the broth: Pour half of the broth over the vegetable mixture and let it simmer on low heat until the liquid has reduced almost completely. This step is essential to concentrate the flavors.

6. Preparing the gelatin: While the vegetable mixture is cooking, place the remaining broth in a small bowl and add the powdered gelatin. Allow the gelatin to hydrate according to the instructions on the package.

7. Blending the mixture: Once the liquid has evaporated, transfer the vegetable mixture to a blender and blend until you obtain a fine paste. You can adjust the texture with a bit of broth if necessary.

8. Straining: Use a fine sieve to strain the vegetable mixture, removing the skins and obtaining a smooth paste. This step is crucial to ensure a silky texture of the foam.

9. Incorporating the gelatin: Add the hydrated gelatin to the obtained paste and mix well. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the sour cream.

10. Final mixing: Gently fold in the sour cream with a spatula to maintain the aeration of the mixture. Here you can add salt and pepper to taste.

11. Cooling: Pour the mixture into round molds or serving cups and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, ideally overnight, to set well.

Serving and combinations

Red bell pepper foam is served as an appetizer, alongside crunchy crackers or toasted bread slices. A fresh Greek salad is an excellent choice to complement this dish, bringing a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. You can add olives and feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, while sour cream provides a good source of calcium. Gelatin contributes to joint and skin health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use fresh peppers instead of roasted peppers?
While roasted peppers bring a smoky and sweet flavor, you can use fresh peppers. However, I recommend grilling or baking them to enhance the flavor.

- How can I make the foam lighter?
You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but with a slightly different texture.

- What else can I add to the foam?
You can experiment with fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, to add a touch of freshness.

In conclusion, red bell pepper foam is an elegant dish that is sure to impress any guest. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you are now ready to put your culinary skills to the test. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!