Peppers in sauce

Peppers in Sauce - Delicious Preserves for Winter

Who doesn't love the flavors of vegetable preserves, especially when it comes to peppers? These sweet peppers, with their crunchy texture and sweet-tangy taste, are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether served alongside meat, in sandwiches, or simply as a side dish, peppers in sauce are a delicacy that belongs in every pantry.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: approximately 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 3 kg peppers
- 500 ml vinegar
- 7 tablespoons tomato paste
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 7 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- Whole peppercorns (about 10)
- 4-5 bay leaves
- 1 cup water (approximately 250 ml)
- 150 ml oil

A Brief History

Peppers are a popular vegetable in many cultures and have been used for centuries in preservation. They not only add a vibrant splash of color and excellent flavor to dishes, but they are also a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C. Preserving peppers in sauce is a traditional method passed down through generations, allowing the fresh taste of the vegetables to be maintained.

Preparing Peppers in Sauce

Step 1: Preparing the Peppers

1. Washing and Cleaning: Start by thoroughly washing the peppers under cold running water. Make sure to remove the stems and seeds, as leaving the seeds can lead to fermentation of the peppers. This is a crucial step for achieving a delicious result.

2. Cutting: Cut the peppers into larger slices, about 1-2 cm thick. This will help them stay crunchy and absorb the sauce better.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

1. Ingredients in the Pan: In a large pan, add the vinegar, oil, water, sugar, tomato paste, mustard, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves torn into small pieces. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

2. Boiling the Sauce: Place the pan over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once the sauce starts to boil, it's time to add the peppers.

Step 3: Blanching the Peppers

1. Blanching: Add a handful or two of peppers to the boiling sauce. Blanch them for about 2 minutes. This will help maintain their crunchy texture and allow the peppers to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

2. Transferring to Jars: Remove the peppers from the sauce using a slotted spoon, letting them drain a bit. Place them hot into sterilized jars. This step is essential to prevent contamination.

Step 4: Finishing the Preserve

1. Adding the Sauce: After filling the jars with peppers, pour the hot sauce over them, ensuring they are completely covered. This will help preserve the flavors and prevent fermentation.

2. Sealing the Jars: Seal the jars tightly with lids. Cover them with a thick blanket to cool slowly, which helps with better sealing. Leave them like this until the next day.

3. Storage: Once completely cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. These pepper preserves are delicious even months after preparation.

Useful Tips

- Choosing Peppers: Opt for large, meaty peppers, as they will provide a better texture.
- Varieties: You can experiment with different spices like oregano or basil to give a personal touch to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: If you prefer a stronger flavor, substitute the oil with extra virgin olive oil.
- Finding Balance: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use other types of peppers, but sweet peppers are the most suitable due to their texture and flavor.

2. How long can I keep the preserves?
If stored properly, the peppers in sauce can be consumed for up to a year. Ensure the jars are airtight and stored under optimal conditions.

3. How can I serve the peppers in sauce?
They are delicious as a side dish to meats, in sandwiches, or alongside cheese.

Combinations and Variations

Peppers in sauce are extremely versatile and can be combined with various dishes. For example, you can try serving them alongside:

- Pork Roast: The sweet-tangy flavor of the peppers will perfectly complement the meat.
- Salads: Add a few slices of peppers to salads for an extra burst of flavor.
- Sandwiches: Use peppers in sauce as a filling for sandwiches, bringing a delightful contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to a stronger immune system. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion. A serving of peppers in sauce has approximately 80 calories, depending on the amount of sauce and oil used.

Personal Note

For a unique touch, I like to add a few slices of carrot or celery to my jars of peppers in sauce, which bring a different texture and flavor. These will blend beautifully with the peppers and give a vibrant look to the final preserve.

Happy cooking and enjoy your peppers in sauce!