Roasted peppers for winter

Delicious Roasted Pepper Recipe for Winter

Preparing roasted peppers for preservation during winter is a culinary tradition that helps us keep the aroma and taste of summer. This simple yet flavorful recipe transforms capia peppers into a versatile ingredient, perfect for various dishes.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: Depends on quantity, but 33 kg of capia peppers can be portioned into about 15-20 bags of 1.5-2 kg.

Necessary ingredients:
- Capia peppers (as many as desired, in our case 33 kg)
- Firewood (wood, not charcoal)
- 1.5-2 kg freezer bags
- A large pot with a lid

Tips for choosing ingredients:
When selecting peppers, look for those that are firm, with an even color, free from spots or signs of damage. Capia peppers are preferred for their sweet taste and meaty texture, but you can also use other types of peppers if you prefer a spicier flavor.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the grill: In the meantime, make sure you have everything ready. Light the firewood on the grill, being careful not to use charcoal, as the smoke will affect the taste of the peppers.

2. Roasting the peppers: Once the coals are glowing, place the capia peppers on the grill. Roast them over the flame, not the coals, turning them frequently to cook evenly. It is important to keep a close eye on them so they do not burn, but rather develop a beautifully caramelized crust.

3. Steaming: After about 20-30 minutes of roasting, take the peppers off the grill and immediately place them in a large pot covered with a lid. This step is essential, as the steam generated will help loosen the skin, making it much easier to remove.

4. Cleaning the peppers: After the peppers have steamed for 20-30 minutes, it’s time to clean them. Use your hands (I recommend washing your hands occasionally to remove any residue) and remove the skin, stems, and seeds. Be careful not to wash the peppers, as this will destroy their flavor.

5. Storing the peppers: Once cleaned, place the peppers in freezer bags, portioning them according to your needs. You can keep them in the freezer for up to two years, and their texture and taste will remain very good.

Tips and variations:
- Protective gloves: If you want to avoid the smell of peppers on your hands, you can use kitchen gloves.
- Adding spices: You can sprinkle a bit of salt or crushed garlic on the cleaned peppers before freezing them to enhance their flavor.
- Serving: Roasted peppers can be served as an appetizer, added to salads, or used in various sauces and dishes. A dry white wine, such as Murfatlar, pairs perfectly with this delicacy.

Personal story:
This recipe was inspired by a smoky day when I cooked together with my husband. We laughed, joked, and even though he cried a little from the smoke, we managed to enjoy the process. Costel, my husband, tried to help me clean, but he quickly gave up, leaving me to do all the work. It was a pleasant experience, and I realized how important it is to enjoy cooking together.

Nutritional benefits:
Capia peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Consuming roasted peppers can help strengthen the immune system, maintain skin health, and improve vision. Additionally, they are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can roasted peppers be frozen? Yes, roasted peppers can be successfully frozen and retain their taste and texture.
- Can I use another type of pepper? Sure! You can experiment with different types of peppers, but capia pepper remains the tastiest for this recipe.
- How can I use roasted peppers? Roasted peppers can be added to salads, pasta, pizza, or as a side dish for various meals.

Therefore, not only have you learned a simple recipe, but you also have the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant outdoor activity with loved ones. So put on your apron and let’s enjoy the roasted peppers!