Pepper stew

Pepper Stew: A Recipe Full of Color and Flavor

I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for pepper stew, a dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your plate. It is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. This dish is an excellent choice not only for its taste but also nutritionally, as it is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg bell peppers (preferably a colorful variety for a more appealing look)
- 1 large white onion
- 1-2 ripe tomatoes (or a cup of canned tomatoes)
- 1 egg (or 2, if you choose the richer version)
- 100 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

A Brief Story About Pepper Stew

Pepper stew is a traditional dish that combines the sweet taste of peppers with the enticing aromas of sautéed vegetables. This dish has been loved by generations, having deep roots in culinary culture. Over time, each family has adapted its recipe, adding ingredients specific to personal preferences. Thus, pepper stew has evolved, becoming a symbol of comfort and family meals.

Step by Step: Cooking Pepper Stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the peppers well. Remove the stems and seeds, then cut them into small pieces. The smaller they are, the more evenly and quickly they will cook. At the same time, peel the onion and chop it finely, and wash the tomatoes and cut them into cubes.

2. Sautéing the peppers: In a large skillet, heat 100 ml of sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped peppers and let them sauté. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan. The peppers will start to lose water and intensify their flavor. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until they become soft and slightly browned.

3. Browning the onion: While the peppers are sautéing, you can take the time to work on the onion. In another pan (or in the same one if you are done with the peppers), add a little oil and wait for it to heat up. Add the finely chopped onion and let it brown, stirring periodically. The golden color of the onion will add a special flavor to the stew.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion is browned, add the tomato cubes. Let everything sauté together over medium heat for about 10 minutes. The tomatoes will release juice and perfectly combine with the onion, forming a flavorful base.

5. Finishing the stew: When the tomatoes are soft and juicy, add the sautéed peppers to the pan. Mix well and let everything cook together for 5 minutes for the flavors to blend.

6. Adding the egg: Beat one egg (or two if you prefer) in a bowl and pour it over the vegetable mixture. Stir quickly to distribute the egg evenly. Let the stew cook for 5 minutes until the egg sets slightly.

7. Seasoning: Finally, season the pepper stew with salt to taste. Once you have turned off the heat, let the dish cool for a few minutes.

Serving and Presentation Suggestions

Pepper stew can be served as is, but you can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top will add a touch of freshness and color. This recipe pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a tomato salad to complete the meal.

Variations of the Recipe

To personalize the pepper stew, you can experiment with various vegetables. For example, adding finely chopped zucchini or eggplant will bring a different texture and enrich the flavor. You can also try adding spices like sweet paprika or black pepper to intensify the taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use hot peppers instead of sweet peppers?
Yes, hot peppers will add a spicy and interesting flavor, but adjust the amount according to your preferences.

2. How can I store pepper stew?
The stew stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Is it a vegetarian recipe?
Yes, pepper stew is a vegetarian recipe, but if you want to turn it into a vegan version, you can omit the egg or use a plant-based egg substitute.

Nutritional Benefits

This stew is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the peppers and tomatoes, and contains important antioxidants that contribute to immune system health. It is also an excellent source of fiber, due to the vegetables, which helps with healthy digestion.

Calories

A serving of pepper stew has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the oil used and the amount of egg added. It is an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Pepper stew is more than just a dish – it is an explosion of flavors and colors that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. By experimenting with ingredients and flavors, you will discover unique variations of this recipe, turning every meal into a celebration of taste. So, get ready to enjoy every step of cooking and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!