Vegetable

Recipe for Mixed Vegetable Preserves

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 20 servings (approximately 5 liters of preserves)

Vegetable preserves are a fantastic way to keep the taste of summer throughout the year. This simple and effective recipe allows you to blend the rich flavors of fresh vegetables and enjoy them in any season. It's a timeless recipe used by many homemakers who wish to preserve vegetables and turn them into delicious dishes.

Ingredients

- 7 kg bell peppers
- 7 kg chili peppers
- 5 kg tomatoes
- 1 kg carrots
- 1 kg onions
- 1 liter oil
- 2 packets of preservative
- Salt (to taste)
- A bunch of fresh parsley

Necessary Utensils

- Meat grinder
- Grater
- A large pan or cauldron
- Jars or bottles for preserves
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Large bowl

Step by Step

1. Preparing the vegetables:
- Start by washing the bell peppers and chili peppers thoroughly. Remove the seeds and cut them into smaller pieces to make chopping easier.
- Wash the tomatoes, then pass them through the meat grinder to obtain a smooth puree.
- Peel the carrots and grate them, and chop the onions finely.

2. Sautéing the onions:
- In a large pan or cauldron, add the oil and heat it up.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly golden. This step will enhance the onion's flavor and give the dish a richer taste.

3. Adding the vegetables:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and let them simmer gently with the onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the tomatoes have softened, add the chopped bell peppers and grated carrots. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, for about 30-40 minutes, until the composition thickens and the juice reduces.

4. Finalizing the preparation:
- Once the mixture has thickened, remove the pan from the heat and add the chopped parsley, salt, and packets of preservative. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.

5. Bottling:
- After the mixture has cooled, prepare the jars or bottles. Ensure they are clean and dry.
- Fill the jars with the vegetable mixture, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the lids tightly to prevent air from entering.

6. Storage:
- Place the jars in a cool, dark place. The preserves can be stored for several months and are excellent for quick dishes like stews or baked meals.

Useful Tips

- Spicy version: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add chopped hot peppers to the mixture.
- Color and texture: Play with the proportions of the vegetables. You can add zucchini or eggplant for a different texture.
- Flavor enhancement: Add spices like black pepper or dried basil for extra flavor.
- Serving: These preserves are perfect as a side dish or can serve as a base for various recipes. You can add them to pasta or use them as a filling for pies.

Nutritional Benefits

- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells.
- Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which contributes to eye health.
- Bell peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, making them very effective in strengthening the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can I keep the preserves?
The preserves can be stored for 6-12 months as long as they are stored properly.

- Can I use frozen vegetables?
It is recommended to use fresh vegetables for the best results, but frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch.

- What other recipes can I make with these preserves?
These vegetables are perfect for stews, soups, or can serve as a filling for pizzas and pies.

Personal Note

I fondly remember the days spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, preparing preserves for winter. It was a joyful ritual, and the smell of fresh vegetables sautéing was unforgettable. I encourage you to try this recipe not only to stock your pantry but also to create beautiful memories with your loved ones. Each jar opened will bring a piece of the summer you’ve just preserved. Enjoy!