pepper sauce with mushrooms

Pepper and Mushroom Sauce – a versatile delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Who doesn’t love a savory sauce that can transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable one? The pepper and mushroom sauce is exactly the condiment that can turn a simple steak into a memorable culinary experience. This flavorful sauce, with a rich texture, can be used both as a side dish and as a main dish for fasting days. It is a traditional recipe that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients.

A bit of history
The pepper and mushroom sauce has deep roots in traditional cuisine, often used as a method of preserving vegetables during the cold season. In many cultures, pepper-based sauces are an ingenious way to keep the flavors of summer, and the combination with mushrooms adds a note of umami that enriches any dish. Whether you use it as a side for steaks or as a filling for various dishes, this sauce is an excellent choice.

Necessary ingredients
To prepare this delicious sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 kg peppers (red and green)
- 2 kg mushrooms
- 400 ml oil
- 400 ml vinegar
- 500 g sugar
- 1 jar of tomato paste (400 g)
- 5 tablespoons mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste

Useful tips for choosing ingredients
When selecting peppers, make sure they are firm and unblemished. Red peppers are sweeter, while green ones add a slightly bitter note. You can experiment with different types of peppers to achieve a personalized taste. As for mushrooms, use fresh mushrooms for a tastier sauce; champignon or oyster mushrooms are ideal.

Step by step: Cooking the sauce
1. Preparing the peppers: Start by cleaning the peppers, removing the stems and seeds. Wash them well and slice them thinly. This step is essential to allow the flavors to combine evenly.

2. Boiling the peppers: In a large pot, add the oil, vinegar, sugar, and whole peppercorns. Place the pot over medium heat and let the mixture reach boiling point. Once it starts to boil, add the sliced peppers. Let them boil for about 15-20 minutes until they are half-cooked. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

3. Preparing the mushrooms: Meanwhile, clean the mushrooms, wash them well, and blanch them in boiling water for 5-7 minutes. Once blanched, drain and chop them into small cubes. This step helps reduce the moisture of the mushrooms so that the sauce doesn’t become too watery.

4. Combining the ingredients: Add the chopped mushrooms to the peppers, then pour in the tomato paste and mustard. Mix well so that all the ingredients combine harmoniously. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. This process should take about 30-40 minutes.

5. Finalizing the sauce: At the end, taste the sauce and add salt as preferred. I recommend starting with a small amount and adjusting to taste.

Serving and variations
The pepper and mushroom sauce can be served warm or cold. It is delicious alongside meat steaks, but also as a filling for sandwiches or tartines. It can also be used as a side for pilaf or mashed potatoes, adding an extra flavor.

If you want to bring a bit of diversity to the dish, you can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, or experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Herbes de Provence.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned peppers instead of fresh?
While fresh peppers offer superior texture and taste, you can use canned peppers in a pinch, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.

2. How can I store the sauce for a longer period?
The sauce can be preserved in sterilized jars. Make sure to seal it tightly and keep it in a cool, dark place.

3. Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
Yes, the pepper and mushroom sauce is perfect for vegans, being made exclusively from plant-based ingredients.

Nutritional benefits
This sauce is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the peppers and mushrooms. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, while mushrooms contain antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestive health. Additionally, this sauce is low in saturated fats, making it a healthy option for your meals.

Calories
A serving of sauce (approximately 100g) contains about 120-150 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sugar used. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious taste without compromising their diet.

Personal story
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who showed me how to prepare delicious sauces. This pepper and mushroom sauce has always been my favorite, and its aroma fills my heart with nostalgia. Every time I make it, I remember those warm and loving moments.

In conclusion, the pepper and mushroom sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can add a touch of magic to any meal. You can experiment with ingredients and spices, making it a versatile dish that suits your tastes. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the cooking process, and the result will surely please everyone! Enjoy your meal!