Bell peppers in a jar for winter

Delicious Bell Pepper Canning Recipe for Winter

In the cold season, the aroma and taste of fresh vegetables become harder to find, but that's not the case with this simple and quick bell pepper canning recipe. Preserving bell peppers in tomato juice is a traditional method that not only allows you to enjoy their flavor throughout the year but also brings back pleasant memories of summer.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 800 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg bell peppers
- 1.5 liters tomato juice (or 1 liter of tomato paste diluted with water)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- A few sprigs of celery

Step 1: Preparing the Peppers
Start by cleaning the bell peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, then wash them thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential to ensure that the peppers are clean and free from impurities.

Step 2: Blanching the Peppers
Place a large pot of water on the stove and add 1 tablespoon of salt for each liter of water. When the water starts to boil, add the cleaned peppers and let them boil for 4 minutes. Blanching helps maintain the vibrant color of the peppers and makes them more pliable for handling.

Step 3: Cooling the Peppers
After the 4 minutes of blanching, use a slotted spoon to remove the peppers and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This step is crucial to stop the cooking process and preserve the peppers' crunchy texture. Let them sit in the cold water for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Preparing the Jars
Meanwhile, sterilize the 800 g jars that will be used for canning. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or placing them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. Sterilizing the jars is essential to prevent bacterial growth.

Step 5: Filling the Jars
Once the peppers have cooled, place them in the jars, being careful not to overcrowd them. Each jar should also contain a sprig of celery, which will add extra flavor. Fill the jars with tomato juice, ensuring that the juice seeps well among the peppers. If you don't have homemade tomato juice, you can use diluted tomato paste to achieve a thinner juice.

Step 6: Sealing the Jars
After the jars are filled, screw the lids on tightly. Make sure they are secure enough to prevent air from entering, which could spoil the contents.

Step 7: Boiling the Jars
Place the jars in a large pot, fill it with water, and put it on the stove. Boil the jars for 30 minutes from the moment the water begins to boil. This sterilization process will help preserve the peppers and extend their shelf life.

Step 8: Cooling the Jars
After boiling, carefully remove the jars from the water and wrap them in a thick blanket. Allow them to cool gradually. This step helps create a vacuum that seals the jars and prevents spoilage.

Step 9: Storing the Jars
Once the jars have completely cooled, store them in a pantry in a dark, cool place. The canned bell peppers can be kept for up to a year, and their taste will remain delicious and fresh.

Helpful Tips:
- Choose high-quality, firm, and healthy peppers, free from spots or scratches.
- You can experiment by adding other herbs, such as dill or basil, for a unique flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of hot peppers to the jars.
- Always check the jar lids after cooling; if they pop up, it means they did not seal correctly.

Nutritional Benefits:
Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making them excellent for supporting the immune system. Eating bell peppers can help maintain healthy skin and promote good vision.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen peppers for this recipe?
It is not recommended, as frozen peppers lose their crunchy texture and won't preserve as well.

2. Is it necessary to use tomato juice?
Tomato juice is essential for flavor, but you can also try other types of vegetable juices.

3. How can I check if the jars have sealed correctly?
After cooling, press down on the lid; if it doesn't pop back up, the jar has sealed properly.

Pairing Recipes:
This canned bell pepper dish pairs perfectly with pork roast or a fresh salad. You can also use the peppers as a side for various dishes or as an ingredient in sandwiches.

Now that you have all the information and necessary steps, all that's left is to try this delicious bell pepper canning recipe. You'll bring a touch of summer to the cold winter days and enjoy their fresh and vibrant taste!