Tomatoes with peppers for soups

Winter Indulgence: Tomatoes with Peppers for Soups

On cold winter days, nothing compares to the warm and comforting aroma of a rich soup made with fresh ingredients. To bring a touch of summer to your plate, preserved tomatoes with peppers are the ideal solution. This simple and flavorful recipe will allow you to enjoy the taste of tomatoes and peppers, even on the coldest days. Let's discover together how to prepare these delicious preserves for winter!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Storage Time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients you need:

- 5 kg of ripe tomatoes (choose quality tomatoes, preferably from the garden or market)
- 1 kg of bell peppers (you can opt for different colors for a more appealing look)
- 1 large root of horseradish (for a unique taste and a spicy note)
- 3 bunches of fresh parsley (for freshness and aroma)
- 0.5 kg of sugar (helps balance acidity)
- 0.25 kg of coarse salt (for preservation)
- 10 aspirin tablets (to maintain preservation)
- Oil (to create a protective layer)

Preparing Tomatoes with Peppers: Step by Step

1. Preparing the Tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. After washing, dry them with a clean towel. Cut the tomatoes into quarters or eighths, depending on their size. Larger tomatoes can be cut into eighths, while smaller ones can be cut into quarters for better juice extraction.

2. Preparing the Peppers
Remove the seeds and stem from the peppers, then chop them finely or pass them through a meat grinder. Peppers add a crunchy texture and a sweet taste to the dish, so feel free to choose a colorful variety for a more vibrant look.

3. Horseradish and Parsley
Grate the horseradish root to obtain a fine consistency. Horseradish will not only enhance the flavor of the dish but will also add a touch of spice. Finely chop the parsley, using only the leaves to avoid a bitter taste.

4. Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, peppers, horseradish, and parsley. Add the salt and sugar, mixing well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for an hour. This step will help extract the juice from the tomatoes and peppers.

5. Adding the Aspirin
After the mixture has rested for an hour and juices have formed, crush the 10 aspirin tablets and mix them well with the vegetables. Aspirin will help preserve the dish and prevent fermentation, keeping it fresh for a longer period.

6. Filling the Jars
Prepare the sterilized jars. Fill each jar with the tomato and pepper mixture, leaving a small space at the top. Then, pour a thin layer of oil on top to cover the mixture. This will help prevent oxidation.

7. Sealing the Jars
Close the jars with their lids and ensure they are well sealed. Place the jars in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. These preserves can be stored for several months and will be perfectly usable during the cold season.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes with a firm texture. Overripe tomatoes can affect the quality of the preserve.
- Horseradish: If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add more horseradish. You can also experiment with other spices like garlic or hot pepper to customize the recipe.
- Sterilizing Jars: Ensure that the jars are completely sterile before filling. You can do this by boiling them for 10-15 minutes.
- Using Aspirin: Inspired by traditional techniques, aspirin is a natural preservative, but you can also opt for other preservation methods, such as boiling sterilization.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can add carrots, celery, or even zucchini to create a more complex preserve.

2. How can I use tomatoes with peppers in recipes?
These preserves are perfect for soups, sauces, or as a side dish. Add them to soups or use them as a base for pasta sauces.

3. How long do the jars last?
If stored properly, the jars can be consumed for up to a year.

Nutritional Benefits:

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Peppers add a dose of vitamin A and vitamin C, and horseradish contributes antibacterial properties. This is a healthy recipe that not only enhances the taste of dishes but also promotes overall health.

Serving and Variations:

For an extra flavor boost, serve the tomato and pepper preserves with a slice of homemade bread, spread with butter. You can combine these preserves with a fresh salad to create a delicious and balanced meal. Also, for a unique touch, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving to intensify the flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking. Use this recipe as a base and add your personal touch! Preserving is not just a necessity but also an art, and you are the artist who will transform simple ingredients into delicious culinary masterpieces. Bon appétit!