Tomato paste with peppers

Tomato and Pepper Paste - a Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you are looking for a tomato and pepper paste recipe that will transform your dishes, you have come to the right place! This tomato and pepper paste recipe is not only an excellent way to preserve summer vegetables but also an opportunity to create a versatile and flavorful ingredient, perfect for sauces, soups, or even as a base for various dishes.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg ripe tomatoes, preferably from the garden
- 4-5 large peppers (various colors for a vibrant appearance)
- 2 teaspoons salt (helps with preservation and enhances flavor)

A bit of history
Tomato paste is a staple ingredient in many kitchens, with a long history. It is believed to have been used since ancient times when people began to preserve tomatoes for use during the winter. This pepper recipe adds a touch of sweetness and a complex flavor, making it even more special.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the tomatoes and peppers well. It is important to ensure they are clean, as we want to achieve a delicious and healthy paste. Use cold water and, if necessary, a fruit brush to remove impurities.

Step 2: Blanching the tomatoes
To easily peel the tomatoes, you can blanch them. Bring water to a boil in a large pot, and once it starts boiling, add the tomatoes for 30-60 seconds. After that, quickly remove them to cold water. The skin will be much easier to remove.

Step 3: Chopping the tomatoes and peppers
Once the tomatoes have been peeled, chop them finely. It is important to get uniformly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Then, chop the peppers into small, equally sized pieces. If you want a more intense flavor, you can choose hot peppers or a combination of sweet and hot peppers.

Step 4: Cooking the paste
Place the chopped tomatoes and peppers in a large pot, add the salt, and mix well. Set the pot over low heat and let the mixture simmer slowly. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes, until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Bottling
After the paste has cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Prepare clean and sterilized jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or using a sterilization cycle in the oven. Pour the hot paste directly into the jars, filling them almost to the top. Seal the lid tightly and let the jars cool covered with a blanket. This method will help create a vacuum, essential for preserving the paste.

Step 6: Storing
Once the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The tomato and pepper paste can be kept for several months.

Useful tips:
- Use ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Garden tomatoes are ideal, but you can also use supermarket tomatoes, ensuring they are well-ripened.
- Vary the types of peppers to achieve different flavors. Yellow or orange peppers add sweetness, while green peppers can provide a fresher note.
- You can add herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme during cooking to enhance the paste's flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender to puree the paste before bottling.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but the flavor will be less intense compared to fresh ones.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots or onions to enrich the flavor.

3. How can I use this paste?
The tomato and pepper paste is excellent as a base for sauces, soups, or as a topping for pasta and pizza.

4. Is it possible to freeze the paste?
Yes, you can freeze the tomato and pepper paste in small portions to preserve it longer.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This tomato and pepper paste is low in calories, with about 50 calories per 100 g, and is rich in vitamins C and A, essential antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Possible variations:
- Add chopped garlic for a spicier and more aromatic flavor.
- You can experiment with spices such as chili or black pepper to give your paste a spicy note.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! The tomato and pepper paste will surely become a favorite in your kitchen, providing you with an authentic and natural taste that you can use in various dishes. Enjoy every serving and savor your recipe!