Pepper paste (Kapia pepper)

Pepper paste - an essential recipe in any kitchen

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars

Pepper paste or kapia peppers is a delicacy that enriches any culinary dish, giving it an unmistakable taste and color. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for preserving the flavors of summer and bringing them to your table throughout the year.

The history of this paste is closely tied to culinary traditions, where peppers have been used not only for their flavor but also for their nutritional properties. Peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a healthy and versatile ingredient. Whether you choose to use red kapia peppers or bell peppers, you will obtain a delicious paste that will transform any meal into a culinary masterpiece.

I will present the necessary steps to prepare this paste, along with useful tips, tricks, and variations that will help you achieve a perfect result.

Necessary ingredients

- 5 kg bell peppers or red kapia peppers
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- Salt (about 100 g)

Step by step: How to prepare pepper paste

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Wash the bell peppers or kapia peppers well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities.
- Remove the stems and seeds, then cut the peppers into slices. This will facilitate the grinding process.

2. Grinding the peppers:
- Use a meat grinder to turn the slices of peppers into paste. Make sure to choose a model that does not clog, so you can achieve a fine texture. You can also use a food processor if you do not have a grinder.

3. Heating the oil:
- In a large pot, bring the oil to medium temperature. It is important not to make it too hot, so as not to burn the pepper paste.

4. Cooking the paste:
- Add the pepper paste to the pot and stir constantly with a wooden spatula. This will help prevent the paste from sticking to the bottom of the pot and will ensure even cooking.
- Cook the paste for about 1.5 - 2 hours, or until it reduces in volume and becomes thicker. It is essential to stir frequently to prevent burning.

5. Adding salt:
- At the end of the cooking process, add salt, being careful to put a little more than you think necessary. The salt will help preserve the paste and enhance the flavor.

6. Preserving:
- Fill the jars with hot paste, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Make sure the edges of the jars are clean to ensure a good seal.
- Put on the lids and make sure they are well secured. You can turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum, but it is recommended to place them in a warm spot, wrapped in a towel, for 1-2 days until they cool completely.

7. Storing:
- Once the jars have cooled, you can store them in the pantry. Pepper paste can be used for a long time, having a delicious taste throughout the year.

Practical tips and variations

- Choosing the peppers: Choose well-ripened peppers with an intense color. These will give your paste a richer taste and a vibrant hue.
- Using the paste: Pepper paste is perfect for adding to sauces, soups, or stews, giving them a deep flavor and interesting texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with other added ingredients, such as garlic or spices (sweet or hot paprika) to personalize the taste of the paste. You can also try adding a splash of vinegar for a tangy flavor.

Frequently asked questions

- How can I check if the paste is well cooked? The paste should have a thicker consistency and not be too liquid. If needed, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- How long can pepper paste be stored? If stored properly, the paste can last up to a year.
- Can I freeze pepper paste? It is recommended to keep it in jars, but if you want to freeze it, make sure to use airtight containers and consume it within 6 months.

Delicious combinations

Pepper paste pairs wonderfully with various dishes. You can use it as a base for pizza, add it to sandwiches, or serve it alongside cheese and olives. Additionally, a dry white wine or a craft beer can perfectly complement a meal served with this delicacy.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to grab the ingredients and start cooking! You will be surprised at how easy it is to prepare a delicious pepper paste that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!