Peppers in tomato sauce

Peppers in tomato sauce

Peppers in tomato sauce are a delicacy that brings a touch of summer to every winter. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it ideal to accompany meat dishes or to add an extra taste to salads. The origins of this recipe are lost in history, but it is a beloved dish in many households, symbolizing the tradition of preserving vegetables for the cold season.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes (depending on quantity)
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 6 kg peppers
- 600 ml oil
- 600 ml vinegar
- 500 g sugar
- 800 g tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 5 tablespoons salt

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by cleaning the peppers. Wash them well under cold running water, then remove the stems and seeds. Cut them into suitable pieces so that they soak well in the sauce.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a large pot, add the oil, vinegar, sugar, tomato paste, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and salt. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Place the pot over medium heat and wait until the mixture comes to a boil.

3. Boiling the peppers: Once the sauce has started to boil, add the chopped peppers. Let them boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently occasionally to prevent sticking. It is important not to overcook the peppers to maintain their crunchy texture.

4. Bottling: After the peppers have boiled, remove them with a slotted spatula and place them in sterilized jars. Make sure each jar is filled with peppers, but leave some space for the sauce from the pot. Pour the hot sauce over the peppers, filling the jars to the brim.

5. Sealing the jars: Screw the lids onto the jars and make sure they are well sealed. This step is essential to prevent oxidation and ensure long-term preservation.

6. Cooling: Place the jars upside down on a clean towel and let them cool completely. This will help create a vacuum and preserve the freshness of the peppers.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the peppers: Opt for whole, firm, and meaty peppers. The fresher they are, the tastier they will be in the end.
- Sterilizing the jars: It is essential to sterilize the jars to prevent bacterial growth. You can do this by boiling or using an oven.
- Sauce variations: You can also add other spices to the sauce, such as oregano or basil, to give it a distinct flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to strengthening the immune system. The olive oil used improves cardiovascular health, and the vinegar aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of peppers? Yes, you can experiment with other types of peppers, but bell peppers offer a unique texture and flavor.
- How long can I keep the peppers? If properly sterilized, they can be kept for up to 1 year in the pantry.
- What can I serve the peppers with? Peppers in tomato sauce are delicious alongside grilled meats, salads, or as a side dish for various meals.

For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, you can serve the peppers with a slice of toasted bread and a glass of dry white wine. These peppers are a perfect accompaniment for festive meals or for a simple family dinner.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try making peppers in tomato sauce at home! Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share the result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!