Tomato paste with peppers for winter

Tomato and Pepper Paste for Winter: A Delicious and Flavorful Recipe

The season of ripe tomatoes is a magical time when our gardens are filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Making a tomato and pepper paste for winter is not just a way to preserve these delights, but also a tradition that connects us to our roots. This simple yet effective recipe will bring joy to your tables during the cold season.

Preparation, Cooking, and Total Time

- Preparation time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 2-3 hours (depending on the desired consistency)
- Total time: 3-4 hours
- Number of servings: Approximately 15 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 10 kg ripe tomatoes (choose high-quality tomatoes with a strong flavor)
- 5 kg peppers (any type, but sweet peppers add a special taste)
- 8-10 tablespoons salt (for preservation and flavor)
- A bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a touch of freshness)
- 5 hot peppers (optional, for a bit of heat)

Necessary Utensils

- A food processor or blender
- A large pot (15 liters)
- A seed separator
- Glass jars with airtight lids
- A metal table or heat-resistant surface

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing the tomatoes, peppers, and parsley. After washing, let them drain to remove excess water. This step is essential, as excess water can affect the final consistency of the paste.

2. Cleaning the Peppers
Remove the seeds and stems from the peppers, then blend them in the food processor until you achieve a smooth paste. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can chop them by hand.

3. Preparing the Tomatoes
Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then quickly transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. This will make them easy to peel. Once peeled, use the seed separator to remove the seeds and obtain a fine pulp.

4. Mixing the Ingredients
In the pot, combine the tomato paste and pepper paste. Mix well to integrate the flavors. Gradually add the salt, tasting along the way to achieve the perfect balance between sweet and salty.

5. Cooking the Paste
Place the pot over a wood fire at moderate heat. It's important not to boil the mixture too quickly; slow cooking will enhance the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add the chopped parsley towards the end to preserve its fresh aroma.

6. Checking the Consistency
After a few hours of boiling, check the consistency of your paste. The rule of thumb is to reduce the mixture by half, but if you prefer a thinner paste for use in soups, you can stop at a lesser reduction.

7. Sterilizing the Jars
While the mixture is cooking, sterilize the jars and lids. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10-15 minutes or using a preheated oven.

8. Filling the Jars
Once the paste is ready, pour the hot mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the lids immediately and ensure they are tightly closed.

9. Cooling the Jars
Place the jars on a metal table, covering them with blankets to cool slowly. This process helps create a vacuum, which is essential for preserving the preparation.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes with a strong flavor. Garden tomatoes are ideal, but you can also use market varieties, ensuring they are well-ripened.
- Spicy Variation: If you want to add a touch of heat, you can adjust the amount of hot peppers according to your preferences.
- Usage: The tomato and pepper paste is versatile; you can use it for soups, sauces, stews, or as a base for pizza.
- Storage: Keep the jars in cool, dark places. Once opened, store them in the fridge and consume within a few weeks.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins (especially vitamins C and K), minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene, which has numerous health benefits. Peppers contribute vitamin A and C, as well as fiber, thus improving digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
While it's recommended to use fresh tomatoes for better flavor, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.

2. How can I check if the jars are properly sealed?
After they cool, press down on the lid. If it doesn't "pop," it means the seal is good.

3. What other recipes can I try with the tomato paste?
This paste is excellent in vegetable soups, stews, pasta sauces, or even as a base for pizza.

Personal Note

This tomato and pepper paste recipe is one that I lovingly prepare every autumn. It’s a way to preserve the flavor of summer, and each jar opened reminds me of the moments spent in the garden, picking tomatoes and peppers. Plus, it’s a perfect recipe to share with loved ones, bringing a touch of warmth and love to our tables.

Whether you choose to make it for yourself or as a gift, the tomato and pepper paste for winter is an excellent choice. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the aroma of this traditional recipe!