Mediterranean spicy sauce

Mediterranean Spicy Sauce: A Flavorful Indulgence

Who doesn't love the rich and spicy flavors of the Mediterranean? This spicy sauce is an explosion of tastes that will transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you use it as a topping for grilled meats, pasta, or even on a steaming pizza, our Mediterranean spicy sauce will bring a touch of sunshine to your plate. Here’s how you can easily prepare it in your own kitchen.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 3 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 600 g yellow bell peppers, sweet and juicy
- 750 g meaty tomatoes (choose well-ripened tomatoes for a richer sauce)
- 150 g slices of black olives (for a savory contrast)
- 1-2 hot peppers (adjust the quantity to taste)
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil (adds a note of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar, to taste)
- 150 g sugar (helps balance acidity)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves (for an aromatic finish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation of Mediterranean Spicy Sauce

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the yellow bell pepper into small cubes. This step doesn’t have to be perfect; the goal is to achieve a pleasant texture for the sauce, so don’t worry if some cubes are larger than others.

2. The Red Part: Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then peel them. Cut them into small cubes as well. This trick will help make the sauce smoother by eliminating the unpleasant texture of the skins.

3. The Hot Pepper: Remove the seeds and membranes from the hot pepper, then finely chop it. If you like a spicier sauce, you can leave the seeds in, but be careful not to overdo it, as hot peppers can be very spicy.

4. Sautéing: In a thicker-bottomed pot, add the olive oil and sauté the yellow bell pepper for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The goal is to achieve a soft texture and intensified flavor.

5. Adding the Tomatoes: Once the pepper has softened, add the diced tomatoes. Let them simmer together until the juice reduces and the sauce thickens. This step is essential for a consistent and flavorful sauce.

6. Spicy and Savory: Now, add the chopped hot pepper, olive slices, balsamic vinegar, and sugar mixed with the Gelfix packet. The Gelfix will help thicken the sauce and give it a pleasant texture. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, making sure to stir frequently!

7. Seasoning: Finally, adjust the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Once you've turned off the heat, add the freshly chopped basil. This is where your sauce will gain a fresh and vibrant aroma.

8. Preserving: Fill the hot jars with the sauce and seal them well. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator or in cool cellars. Make sure the jars are sterilized to prevent any contamination.

Chef's Tip
For an even more aromatic sauce, you can add some dried herbs like oregano or thyme during cooking. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use a blender to puree it after cooking.

Delicious Combinations
This Mediterranean spicy sauce is versatile and can be used in various dishes. It is wonderful served alongside:
- Grilled Meat: Pork chops or grilled chicken become instantly more delicious with this sauce.
- Pasta: Mix the sauce with cooked pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Pizza: Pour the sauce over a hot pizza to add a spicy and savory taste.

Nutritional Benefits
This sauce is not only tasty but also healthy! Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and yellow peppers contain a lot of vitamin C. Extra virgin olive oil brings healthy fatty acids essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use red or green peppers, but each type will give a different taste to the sauce.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more hot peppers or even chili flakes for an extra kick.

3. Can the sauce be frozen?
Yes, this sauce can be frozen in small portions for later use. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers.

Personal Note
Childhood memories are often linked to family meals, and this Mediterranean spicy sauce reminds me of warm summer evenings when we gathered around the table, enjoying good food and stories. I hope this sauce brings you unforgettable moments with your loved ones as well.

So, get ready to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of the Mediterranean into your kitchen with this delicious spicy sauce! Enjoy!