Fried peppers in tomato sauce

Fried Peppers in Tomato Sauce - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of crispy fried peppers coated in fresh tomato sauce? This recipe for fried peppers in tomato sauce is not only simple but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect as a side dish or an appetizer. A traditional dish with deep roots in our cuisine, it can transform any meal into a feast. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Ingredients

- 7 green peppers (preferably goat horn)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 large ripe tomato
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)

Necessary Utensils

- Deep frying pan or wok
- Large plate
- Small bowl
- Grater
- Deep plate
- Lid for the pan

Recipe Steps

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold running water. You'll fry them whole, so make sure they are clean.

2. Frying the peppers: Heat a deep frying pan with oil for frying. The oil should be hot enough to fry the peppers but not so hot that they burn. Add the peppers to the pan and fry them on both sides until they turn golden and crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Use a spatula to carefully turn them so they brown evenly.

3. Cooling the peppers: Once the peppers are ready, remove them to a plate and sprinkle a little salt on top. This will help draw out moisture and enhance the flavor. Let them cool slightly.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce: In the same pan, leave the oil used for frying the peppers over medium heat. Add the whole (washed) tomato and cover with a lid. Covering is essential, as the tomato may splatter due to the heat. Cook the tomato for 5-7 minutes or until the skin starts to peel.

5. Peeling the tomato: Remove the tomato from the pan and let it cool slightly, then peel it. Use a fork to mash it well until it becomes a smooth sauce.

6. Adding flavors: To the tomato sauce, add salt, the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and the two garlic cloves, peeled and grated with a fine grater. Mix all the ingredients well to create a flavorful and delicious sauce.

7. Assembling the dish: Place the fried peppers in a bowl or on a plate and pour the tomato sauce over them. You can gently mix to evenly coat the peppers with the sauce.

Serving

This dish can be served warm or cold, as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with meat stews, beans, or even on a slice of fresh bread. I recommend serving it with a fresh green salad or salty feta cheese, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the peppers: Goat horn peppers have a sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, but you can experiment with other types of peppers, such as red or yellow peppers, for a pop of color on your plate.
- Vegetarian option: This dish is already vegetarian but can also be vegan; just make sure to use high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor.
- Tomato sauce: If you want to give it an even richer taste, you can add some herbs, such as basil or oregano, to the tomato sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are rich in antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. Garlic, in addition to adding a delicious flavor, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned roasted peppers?
Yes, you can use roasted peppers, but the texture will be different. Fresh fried peppers provide a pleasant crunch.

2. How can I store the fried peppers?
You can store the fried peppers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a pan.

3. What can I substitute for garlic?
If you're not a fan of garlic flavor, you can omit this ingredient or use some green onions to add a similar flavor.

Serving Suggestion

I recommend serving this dish with a refreshing drink, such as a dry white wine or fresh lemonade. A meal with fried peppers in tomato sauce and good company will create unforgettable memories.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Enjoy every moment of this culinary process and don't forget to savor the final result. Bon appétit!