Bell pepper with tomatoes

Kapia peppers with tomatoes – a heartfelt recipe, full of flavor and warmth, that takes us back to childhood, when the meals prepared by mom were truly special. This simple yet tasty dish combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the juiciness of tomatoes and a hint of garlic, transforming it into a perfect dish for autumn meals. Let's embark together on this delicious recipe, step by step, to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 large roasted kapia peppers (preferably fresh and well-roasted)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 large, juicy tomatoes (ideally in season)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil, depending on preference)
- Salt, to taste
- 200 ml water (or enough to cover the peppers, leaving the stems out)
- 200 g sour cream (preferably high-fat)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. It is important to chop it finely so that it sautés evenly and releases its aroma. Choose white or yellow onion, depending on preference; white onion has a sweeter taste, while yellow is spicier.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a deep skillet, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Be careful not to burn it, as the bitter taste of burnt onion could ruin the dish.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and cut them into small cubes. Add them to the skillet over the onion and mix well. The tomatoes will not only add moisture but will also create a delicious sauce full of flavor. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Preparing the peppers: If you don't have roasted peppers already, you can roast them on a tray in the oven or on a grill until the skin turns black and peels off easily. Once cooled, peel off the skin and cut them in half, leaving the stems intact – this detail will give them a nicer look on the plate.

5. Adding the peppers to the skillet: Place the roasted peppers in the skillet around the tomato and onion mixture, ensuring that each pepper is well covered with sauce. Sprinkle salt to taste.

6. Boiling: Add water to the skillet, just enough to lightly cover the bottom and reach the stems of the peppers. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Check the water level occasionally and add more if necessary, but do not let it boil too hard to avoid drying out.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has thickened and the peppers have absorbed the flavor of the tomatoes and onion, it's time to prepare for serving. Pour the sour cream over the cooked peppers and sprinkle the crushed garlic. Gently mix so that the sour cream integrates into the delicious sauce.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish with a slice of fresh bread, which will absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce. It is also wonderful to accompany it with a fresh green salad or feta cheese for a savory contrast. It is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner and can be served warm or at room temperature.

Variations:
This recipe is very versatile. You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to give it a personal touch. You can also incorporate spices like basil or oregano to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This kapia pepper and tomato recipe is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while tomatoes provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Garlic, besides its unmistakable aroma, helps strengthen the immune system. A serving of this dish contains about 200 calories, making it an easy option to include in a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen peppers?
Yes, frozen peppers can be used, but the taste will be different. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe by replacing the sour cream with a plant-based alternative.

- How can I freeze the dish?
Once cooled, you can portion the dish into airtight containers and freeze it. When you want to consume it, thaw and reheat on the stove.

This kapia pepper and tomato recipe is not just a simple dish, but a memory of family meals and times spent together. With every bite, you will feel closer to those special moments. So, embrace this culinary tradition and enjoy every step of the cooking process! Enjoy your meal!