Peppers in sauce

Peppers in sauce - A delicious winter recipe

Autumn is the season when nature offers us a wealth of vegetables, and peppers are undoubtedly among the most delicious and versatile of them. These sweet peppers are not only tasty but also extremely healthy. Their richness in vitamins and antioxidants makes them the perfect choice for winter preserves. In this recipe, we will transform the peppers into a delicious sauce, ideal for accompanying various dishes, whether it's a juicy roast or a flavorful pizza.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 800 ml

Necessary ingredients:

- 5 kg peppers
- 330 ml tomato puree (or more, to taste)
- 330 ml homemade ketchup
- 200 g sugar
- 150 ml oil
- 200 ml vinegar
- 3-4 bay leaves
- Sprigs of thyme (fresh or dried)
- Sprigs of basil (fresh or dried)
- Salt (to taste)

The history of peppers in sauce:
Peppers in sauce are a cherished culinary tradition in many cultures. This preservation method not only helps to keep the vegetables but also adds a unique flavor, intensified by the spices used. Vegetable sauces are often used as accompaniments but also as ingredients in various dishes, thus becoming essential in winter cuisine.

Step by step – Preparing peppers in sauce:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by cleaning the peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, then slice them thinly. A quick alternative is to grate them – this method will speed up the cooking process and help achieve a uniform texture.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a large pot, combine the tomato puree, homemade ketchup, sugar, oil, and vinegar. Add salt to taste, then place the pot over medium heat. Stir the ingredients well and let them reach a boiling point.

3. Boiling the peppers: Once the sauce has started to boil, add the peppers in three batches. Each batch should last between 7 and 10 minutes. It is important that the peppers soften well so that they can integrate perfectly into the sauce.

4. Preparing the jars: While the peppers are boiling, prepare the jars. Sterilize them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes. It is essential that the jars are completely dry to prevent mold formation.

5. Bottling: As the peppers are boiling, use a funnel to pour the mixture into sterilized jars. Make sure to fill each jar, leaving a little space to add the remaining sauce.

6. Adding spices: If you used sprigs of thyme and basil, now is the time to remove them if they are fresh. If you used dried spices, they can remain in the sauce.

7. Sealing: After you have filled all the jars, place the lid on each one and ensure they are well closed. Cover the jars with a thick blanket and let them cool slowly until the next day. This process helps form a vacuum, thus ensuring better preservation.

8. Storing: Once the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar or pantry.

Serving suggestions:
Peppers in sauce are extremely versatile and can be used in many ways. You can serve them as a pickle alongside roasts or add them as a topping on pizza. Additionally, you can use them to give a special flavor to salads or sandwiches.

Variations of the recipe:
- You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to diversify the flavor.
- Replace vinegar with lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Experiment with various spices, such as garlic or chili pepper, to achieve a spicy note.

Nutritional information:
Peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to strengthening the immune system and maintaining skin health. By preserving them, you ensure that you benefit from these nutrients throughout the winter.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peppers? Although it is recommended to use fresh peppers for the best texture and flavor, if you have nothing else on hand, frozen peppers can be an alternative.
2. How can I check if the jars are well sealed? If the lid of the jar is depressed in the center and does not move, it is a sign that the vacuum has formed correctly.
3. How long can I keep the peppers in sauce? If properly preserved, the peppers can be kept for up to a year under suitable storage conditions.

Now it's your turn to enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for peppers in sauce! Don't hesitate to share the result with family and friends, because nothing compares to the joy of a meal cooked with love, from fresh and healthy ingredients. Enjoy your meal!