Vegetables for winter with tomatoes and peppers

Aromatic Vegetables for Winter: A Treasure in a Jar

Winter is approaching quickly, and cooking becomes a true art in the cold. This season, nothing compares to a warm and comforting soup, flavored with fresh vegetables. Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for aromatic vegetables for winter, a delicious combination of tomatoes and peppers that will transform any soup into a culinary feast. This recipe is not only simple but also makes 3 liters of vegetables, ideal for stocking your pantry for chilly days.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 3 liters

Basic ingredients:
- 5 kg ripe tomatoes (choose quality, preferably organic tomatoes for an intense flavor)
- 700 g peppers (kapia, sweet, or Bulgarian, your choice will influence the final aroma)
- 1 packet of preservative (7 g, make sure it is suitable for vegetables)
- 2 tablespoons coarse salt (helps with preservation and final taste)
- 1 pinch of pepper (adds a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons oil (flavored, preferably olive oil)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Cut them into quarters and remove the stems. It is essential to use well-ripened tomatoes, as they will provide a rich flavor and a velvety texture.

2. Turning the tomatoes into puree: Use a food processor to turn the tomatoes into a fine puree. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender or even a sieve, but the process will take longer. Place the tomato puree in a large pot, allowing for even heat distribution.

3. Preparing the peppers: Remove the seeds and stems from the peppers, then wash them well. Cut them into large pieces and puree them in the same manner as the tomatoes. Kapia or sweet peppers add natural sweetness and intense aroma.

4. Boiling the mixture: Add the pepper puree over the tomato puree in the pot. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It is important to stir constantly to prevent sticking. Once the vegetables have reduced and the mixture becomes homogeneous (about 20-30 minutes), it’s time to add the preservative.

5. Enhancing the flavor: In a small cup, mix the packet of preservative with 2-3 tablespoons of tomato puree until completely dissolved. Add this mixture to the pot and stir well, ensuring the preservative is evenly distributed.

6. Packing and preserving: Start filling the bottles with the hot vegetable mixture. Leave a little space at the top, then add 1-2 tablespoons of oil on top. The oil will not only help prevent oxidation but will also add an extra layer of flavor.

7. Sealing the jars: Place the lids on the filled bottles and let them cool under blankets for 2-3 days. This step is essential to create a vacuum inside the jars, which will help preserve the vegetables.

8. Storage: Once completely cooled, you can store the jars in a dark, cool place. Make sure they are labeled with the preparation date, so you know when to use them.

Tips and Tricks:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to diversify the flavor.
- If you like spicy dishes, add a teaspoon of finely chopped hot pepper.
- The prepared vegetables can be used not only in soups but also as a base for sauces or stews.

Nutritional Information:
Aromatic vegetables are rich in vitamins (A, C) and antioxidants, thanks to the tomatoes and peppers. They are an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion. A 100 g serving of vegetables contains approximately 40 calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of tomatoes? Yes, you can experiment with different vegetables, but keep in mind that tomatoes provide a good base due to their natural acidity.
2. How can I check if the vegetables have been preserved correctly? Check if the lids are well sealed and that there are no signs of fermentation or unpleasant odors.
3. How long can the vegetables be stored? If properly preserved, they can be kept for up to 1 year.

Serving Suggestions:
Aromatic vegetables are perfect for enriching any soup. I recommend serving them alongside a slice of fresh bread or a crunchy green salad for a pleasant contrast. You can also accompany the soup with a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to transform the tomatoes and peppers into this delicious winter treasure. The flavors will take you on a culinary journey, and each spoonful will bring a touch of warmth to the cold evenings. Enjoy every step and don’t forget to share with your loved ones!