Sunflower Seed Paste with Red Pepper

Name: Sunflower Seed Paste with Red Pepper - Ligia P.
Ingredients: 1 cup of raw; unsalted sunflower or pumpkin seeds; or a combination of both; 1 bell pepper; red or sweet; juice from 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 tablespoon of honey; 1 pinch of ground red pepper or hot paprika; 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley; finely chopped; salt; black pepper; freshly ground; oil for the peppers

Sauces - Sunflower Seed Paste with Red Pepper by Ligia P. - Recipia

To prepare this delicious recipe, we start by preparing the seeds. It is essential to place them in a sufficiently large bowl so that we can completely cover them with still water. Covering the seeds with water will allow them to absorb the liquid and swell, which will enhance their texture and flavor. We leave the seeds at room temperature for about 8 hours, preferably overnight, so that they are ready for the next step. After soaking, we drain the seeds and discard the water. It is important to place them on a clean towel to dry as much as possible, gently turning them so that the moisture evaporates evenly. This step is crucial, as wet seeds will not blend well in the blender, resulting in a paste with an uneven texture. In the meantime, we take care of the red pepper. We brush it with a little olive oil on all sides and roast it in the preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes. It is important to turn it periodically to roast evenly. The pepper is ready when it becomes soft and the skin starts to peel off. Once roasted, we let the pepper cool a bit, then peel off the skin and seeds, resulting in a fine pulp. Next, we transfer the dried seeds and the pepper pulp into the blender. We blend the ingredients in batches to ensure they combine well. At this stage, we can add aromatic ingredients that will flavor our paste. We add olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a few drops of honey for a touch of sweetness, red pepper (hot paprika) for a spicy taste, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, all adjusted according to personal preferences. If we want a thicker paste, we can add seeds; if we prefer a thinner consistency, we add more lemon juice. Finally, we remember to incorporate finely chopped fresh parsley, which will add a touch of freshness and color to the dish. We mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. The resulting paste can be served with slices of toasted bread, providing a delicious and healthy snack, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only simple but also full of nutrients, ideal for enjoying with friends or family.