Eros Track

Spicy Pepper Paste – a spicy delicacy for the brave!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Sterilization time: 5 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 1 jar of 250 g

Discover the spicy pleasure of dishes with spicy pepper paste! This simple and quick recipe will transform your meals, bringing a touch of warmth and flavor to every dish. Whether you use it in sauces, marinades, or simply as a seasoning to enhance the taste of your favorite foods, spicy pepper paste is a versatile ingredient that no cooking enthusiast should be without.

The history behind this recipe is as rich as its flavor. Over time, hot peppers have been appreciated not only for their unique taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, hot peppers stimulate metabolism and can have beneficial effects on health. This traditional recipe is simple yet impactful, proving to be an excellent way to preserve the vibrant flavor of peppers.

Ingredients:
- 250 g of red hot peppers (choose the hottest ones you can find)
- 1 tablespoon of coarse salt

Necessary tools:
- Chopper
- Glass jar with lid
- Dish soap
- Microwave or pot for sterilization

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the hot peppers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any dirt. Once washed, cut off the stems of the peppers.

2. Chopping the peppers: Using a chopper, chop the peppers into smaller pieces, including the seeds, which contribute to the heat level of the paste. Add the coarse salt over the chopped peppers and mix until you obtain a homogeneous paste. At this point, the spicy aroma will start to invade your kitchen.

3. Sterilizing the jar: It is crucial to sterilize the jar to prevent the paste from spoiling. Wash the jar with dish soap, then rinse it well. You can quickly sterilize it in the microwave: fill it with water and microwave it for 5 minutes. Make sure you have a heat-resistant support handy to avoid burns.

4. Transferring the paste: Once the pepper paste is ready, carefully transfer it to the sterilized jar. Use a spatula to ensure no air bubbles remain. Fill the jar to the brim and seal it tightly.

5. Storing: Place the jar in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The spicy pepper paste can be stored for months, but once opened, keep it in the fridge to maintain its freshness.

Useful tips:
- Use gloves: Always work with gloves when handling hot peppers. The essential oils in the peppers can irritate the skin and especially the eyes. After finishing, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder paste, you can mix hot peppers with a few sweet peppers. This will reduce the spiciness while maintaining the flavor.
- Add flavors: You can experiment by adding other ingredients, such as garlic or herbs, to create a paste with an even more complex taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- What can I do with spicy pepper paste?
Spicy pepper paste is excellent in sauces, marinades, soups, or even on pizza. You can use it as a topping for meat or vegetables, adding an extra layer of flavor and intensity.

- How much paste can I use?
I recommend starting with a small amount, tasting along the way to adjust the heat level according to your preferences.

- Can spicy pepper paste be frozen?
Yes, spicy pepper paste can be frozen. Pack it in small portions in an airtight container, and you can enjoy its flavor throughout the year.

Combine this delicious paste with dishes like spicy tomato sauce, grilled meat, or sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint lemonade, to balance the heat.

A personal variation I recommend is to add a few drops of balsamic vinegar when preparing the paste. This will provide a pleasant acidity, balancing the spicy taste of the peppers.

In conclusion, spicy pepper paste is a simple yet full of personality condiment that can transform any ordinary meal into a feast full of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize your recipe, and each jar you prepare will bring a touch of joy and culinary adventure to your kitchen!