Red pepper paste

Red Pepper Paste - a delight that will transform your meals into unforgettable moments! This simple and delicious recipe will take you on a culinary journey, adding a splash of color and an intense flavor to your dishes. Whether you use it as a base for sauces, as a filling for sandwiches, or as a secret ingredient in soups, red pepper paste will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 2 jars (approximately 500 g in total)

Ingredients:
- 1 kg red bell peppers (you can use capia or gogosari, each with its distinct texture and flavor)
- 70 ml oil (olive oil or sunflower oil are excellent options)
- 130 ml tomato paste (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- Salt (to taste)

A bit of history:
Pepper paste is an unpretentious yet quite versatile dish that has enjoyed popularity in many culinary cultures. Its origins are deeply rooted in vegetable preservation traditions, when people sought ways to keep the fresh flavors of summer throughout the winter. This recipe is a perfect way to make the most of delicious and juicy peppers, transforming them into a delightful condiment.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the red peppers well under cold running water. Make sure they are clean and free of impurities. Cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds and stem, then chop them into larger pieces. This will facilitate the blending process.

2. Grinding the peppers: Use a food processor to turn the pepper pieces into a fine paste. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a blender or, if you want a more rustic texture, a mortar and pestle. Make sure the paste is not too liquid, but rather a thick consistency.

3. Boiling the paste: Place the obtained paste in a pot and let it simmer over low heat. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer until the water released by the peppers has completely evaporated. This step is essential for achieving a concentrated and flavorful paste.

4. Adding additional ingredients: Once the water has evaporated, add the oil and a pinch of salt. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients. Then, pour in the tomato paste and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oil rises to the surface. This process will take about 15-20 minutes.

5. Preserving the paste: When the paste is ready, take the sterilized jars (to prevent bacterial growth, ensure the jars are cleaned and boiled beforehand) and fill them with the pepper paste, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Cover them with a blanket and let them cool slowly until the next day.

6. Storage: Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. For quicker use, you can keep them in the refrigerator after opening, but be careful, as the taste is so good that you might not get to use them in other dishes!

Serving suggestions:
Red pepper paste is extremely versatile. You can spread it on toasted bread for a delicious breakfast or snack, add it to pasta or pizza sauces, or even use it to give a special flavor to soups and stews. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with cheeses or cold cuts.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a spicy note, you can include some hot peppers in the recipe. You can also experiment with herbs such as basil or oregano to customize the flavor of the paste.

Nutritional information (per serving):
Calories: approximately 150 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 2 g
Fiber: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use peppers of other colors? Absolutely! Yellow or green peppers can add a different flavor and color to your paste.
2. How can I tell if the paste is ready? The paste is ready when the oil rises to the surface and the consistency is smooth, without excess liquid.
3. Can I freeze the pepper paste? Yes, you can freeze the pepper paste in small portions, but make sure it is in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
4. What else can I add for a different taste? You can add garlic or sautéed onions for an extra flavor.

I hope you enjoy making this red pepper paste and that it becomes a staple recipe in your kitchen! It’s a simple and quick way to bring intense flavor to every meal, and its aromas will transform any dish into a memorable experience. Try it with confidence and don’t hesitate to share the result with your loved ones!