Gogosari Paste by Rocsi

Pepper Paste - A Summer Delicacy for Winter

When thinking of a recipe that enriches meals with an intense flavor and a special aroma, you can't help but think of pepper paste. This simple yet flavorful recipe has become a tradition in many households, used not only as an accompaniment in various dishes but also as a magical ingredient in soups and stews. Before we get started, let's explore together some details about peppers and the benefits of this paste.

A Brief History of Pepper Paste

Peppers, these sweet and meaty vegetables, have been cultivated over time in various regions, becoming a staple ingredient in traditional dishes. Pepper paste is an excellent way to preserve the flavor of summer and bring it to your table even on cold winter days. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each adding their personal touch, making it unique.

Preparation Time

- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: about 5 jars of 250 ml

Ingredients

- 1 kg of fresh peppers
- 50 ml of sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of coarse salt

Ingredient Details

Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to strengthening the immune system. The oil added not only helps in preparing the paste but also gives it a smoother texture. Coarse salt is essential for preserving the paste, helping to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Preparation Technique

1. Wash and clean the peppers: Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and seeds. It is important to use fresh peppers, as they will give your paste an unmistakable flavor.

2. Turn the peppers into paste: Use a food processor to chop the peppers until you achieve a homogeneous texture, similar to a paste. You can play with the consistency, but make sure there are no large pieces left.

3. Boil the mixture: In a large pot, add the pepper paste along with the oil and salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. This is the time to stir constantly to avoid burning the paste on the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial as it will allow you to achieve a perfect consistency.

4. Cook until thickened: Keep the mixture on the heat until the liquid reduces and you obtain a thicker sauce. This process will take about 30 minutes, but it is essential to stir frequently to prevent sticking.

5. Sterilizing the jars: In the meantime, prepare the jars. You can sterilize them by boiling in water for 10 minutes or placing them in the oven at 120°C for 15 minutes. Make sure the jars are completely dry before pouring in the paste.

6. Fill the jars: Once the paste is ready, pour the hot mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars with lids and boil them again for 15 minutes to ensure they are well sealed.

7. Cooling and storing: After boiling, let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The pepper paste will keep perfectly and can be used in many delicious dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Pepper paste is extremely versatile. You can use it as a base in soups and stews, adding a rich flavor and vibrant color. It is also delicious on toasted bread, alongside creamy cheese or as part of a charcuterie board.

Recipe Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables to the paste, such as carrots or celery, for a more complex flavor. You can also try adding spices like black pepper, basil, or oregano for a Mediterranean note.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use bell peppers or hot peppers for a different flavor.

2. How long does the pepper paste last?
If stored correctly in sterilized jars, the paste can last up to a year.

3. Is it possible to freeze the paste?
Yes, you can freeze the pepper paste in small portions, but the texture may suffer a bit after thawing.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This pepper paste recipe is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for your meals. Each serving (about 100 g) contains around 60-70 calories, being rich in vitamins and minerals, without saturated fats or added sugars.

In conclusion, pepper paste is not just a simple preservation recipe but also a way to bring the flavor of summer to your table all year round. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the intense aroma and taste of peppers, turning them into delicious dishes that will delight family and friends!

We wash and clean the bell peppers, then we process them in a food processor until we get a paste. We put all the ingredients in a pot and bring it to a boil. We keep it on the heat until the liquid reduces and we obtain a thick sauce. We stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. We pour the mixture into sterilized jars and boil the jars for about 15 minutes after the water starts to boil. We let it cool down and store it in the pantry.

 Ingredients: 1 kg of bell peppers 50 ml of oil 1 teaspoon of coarse salt

 Tags:  pepper paste