Roasted peppers in a jar without vinegar

Preserving Roasted Peppers Without Vinegar: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Roasted peppers are a versatile delicacy used in various dishes, from salads to hot meals. Preserving them without vinegar allows them to maintain their natural flavor and delicious texture, making them an excellent base for future recipes. In this recipe, I will present a simple and effective way to preserve roasted peppers, so you can enjoy them throughout the year.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 1 jar of 720g

Necessary Ingredients

- 650g-700g roasted peppers (preferably capia or bell peppers)
- 1 teaspoon of pickling salt
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)

Brief History of Roasted Peppers

Roasted peppers have a rich history, being used in traditional cuisines throughout the centuries. They are often associated with rustic and home-cooked dishes, having a sweet and smoky flavor that recalls family meals and moments spent together. Preserving roasted peppers has become a popular practice, allowing people to taste the flavors of summer in winter.

Step by Step: How to Preserve Roasted Peppers

1. Preparing the Peppers
Start by washing the peppers well under cold running water. Choose meaty peppers, such as capia or bell peppers, which roast well. Roasting them will enhance their flavor and improve their texture.

2. Roasting the Peppers
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the peppers on a baking tray and roast them for 30-40 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the skin becomes brown and slightly charred. This is the stage where the peppers develop their distinctive flavor.

3. Cleaning the Peppers
After roasting, remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt on top and cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Let them sit for 20 minutes; the steam will help loosen the skin, making it easier to clean.

4. Preparing the Jars
While the peppers cool, prepare the jars. Make sure they are well washed and sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by sterilizing them in the oven.

5. Cleaning and Cutting the Peppers
Once cooled, peel the peppers and remove the seeds. Tear them into strips or cut them, depending on your preference. Place the pepper strips in the jars, making sure to keep an even space.

6. Layering and Adding Oil
At the bottom of each jar, sprinkle a small amount of salt. Then, add a layer of peppers, sprinkling salt again. Continue this way until the jar is full, leaving about 1-2 cm space at the top. Heat the oil to 70 degrees Celsius, and pour it over the peppers until they are completely covered.

7. Sterilization
Cover the jars with lids and place them in a large pot of water. Sterilize the jars at 100 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes for 720g jars. If using smaller jars (480g-500g), 45 minutes is sufficient.

8. Cooling the Jars
After sterilization, remove the jars from the water and turn them upside down on a clean towel. Cover them with a blanket to cool completely. This step helps create a better seal.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality peppers: Opt for well-ripened peppers, free of spots or defects. The quality of the ingredients will significantly influence the final taste.
- Experiment with spices: You can add dried herbs or garlic between the layers of peppers for an even more intense flavor.
- Check the seal: Ensure that the jars are well sealed before storing them. A lid that does not seal properly can lead to spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use any type of pepper, but meaty ones are best for better preservation.

2. How long can I keep preserved roasted peppers?
If stored properly, preserved roasted peppers can be consumed for up to 1 year.

3. How can I use preserved roasted peppers?
Preserved roasted peppers can be used in salads, sauces, pasta, or as a side dish for various meals. For example, you can prepare an eggplant salad with roasted peppers or a traditional dish 'roasted peppers a la Durau'.

Variations and Serving

An interesting variation would be to add a few slices of olives or capers in the jar to create a savory combination. Roasted peppers can be served as an appetizer, alongside cheeses or toasted bread, together with a glass of white wine or craft beer.

Preserving roasted peppers without vinegar is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year. I invite you to try this recipe and discover how easy it is to have a versatile and tasty ingredient at hand, ready to enrich your meals! Happy cooking!