Vegetables for winter with tomatoes and peppers

Winter Vegetable Mix with Tomatoes and Peppers - Preservation Recipe

When it comes to preparing the pantry for winter, the winter vegetable mix with tomatoes and peppers is an excellent choice. This simple and delicious recipe not only offers a fresh and vibrant taste on chilly days but also brings back pleasant memories of summer. Preparing this recipe is a tradition in many households, a ritual that brings the family together around the table.

*Number of servings:* Approximately 10 jars
*Preparation time:* 30 minutes
*Cooking time:* 2 hours
*Total time:* 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

- 5 kg fresh, ripe, and aromatic tomatoes
- 700 g peppers (kapia, sweet, Bulgarian)
- 1 packet of preservative (7 g)
- 2 tablespoons coarse salt
- A pinch of pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Necessary utensils

- A large pot or deep saucepan
- A food processor or blender
- Glass jars with lids
- A wooden spoon
- A cup for mixing

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Cut them into quarters and remove the stems. Then, process them in the food processor until you achieve a smooth puree. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave some larger pieces.

2. Preparing the peppers
Remove the seeds and stems from the peppers. Wash them well and cut them into large pieces. Then, place them in the food processor and process until they become a homogeneous paste. The peppers add a sweet note and vibrant color to the dish, so feel free to choose the variety you like best.

3. Cooking the vegetables
Put the tomato puree in a large pot and add the processed peppers. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. This is the moment to enjoy the delicious aroma spreading throughout the kitchen!

4. Adding the seasonings
After about an hour of boiling, when the vegetables have reduced and thickened, add the salt, pepper, and preservative. It is important to mix the preservative with 2-3 tablespoons of tomato puree before adding it to the mixture to ensure it disperses evenly.

5. Filling the jars
When the vegetable mix is hot and well-seasoned, take the sterilized glass jars and fill them with the vegetable mixture. Leave a little space at the top, then add 1-2 tablespoons of oil on top. The oil will help form a film that protects the vegetable mix from oxidation.

6. Sealing the jars
Seal the jars tightly with the lids and place them in a warm spot, covered with blankets, to cool slowly. This slow cooling process helps preserve the flavors and enhances preservation.

7. Storage
After 2-3 days, when the jars have completely cooled, you can store them in a dark and cool place, where they will last all winter.

Practical tips

- Choosing tomatoes: Opt for well-ripened tomatoes, preferably from the garden, as they have a more intense and sweeter taste.
- Spicy option: If you like a bit of heat, you can add some hot peppers to the mixture.
- Jars: Make sure the jars are sterilized before filling to avoid contamination.
- Using oil: The oil not only protects but also enhances the flavor. You can experiment with flavored oils, such as basil oil.

Nutritional information

This recipe is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, especially due to the tomatoes, which are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The peppers provide an extra dose of vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system. A serving of this vegetable mix can have about 80 calories, making it a healthy condiment option for your meals.

Delicious combinations

The winter vegetable mix pairs perfectly as a side dish with meats, but also as an ingredient in soups and stews. You can serve it alongside a slice of fresh bread or with feta cheese for a rustic meal. Additionally, add it to omelets or frittatas to enhance their flavor.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other vegetables? Of course! You can add grated carrots or celery for a different flavor.
- How can I make the vegetable mix sweeter? By adding a bit of sugar or honey during cooking, you can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Is the preservative necessary? The preservative helps maintain the quality and safety of the product, but if you prefer a natural option, you can omit it and consume the vegetable mix more quickly.

Personal note

This winter vegetable mix recipe is one of my favorites because it reminds me of my childhood when my mother would prepare jars full of flavor and color. Each opened jar brings with it a memory, a family meal, and moments of joy. I encourage you to cherish those pleasant moments and share this recipe with your loved ones to create new memories together. Cook with love and joy, and your winter vegetable mix will surely be a success!