Peppers in tomato sauce

Peppers in tomato sauce - a classic recipe, full of flavor and memories

Peppers in tomato sauce are a delicacy that is part of the culinary heritage of many families. This recipe is not just a method of preserving vegetables, but also a way to bring intense flavors and summer aromas to your table, even on cold winter days. The peppers, with their crunchy texture and sweet-sour taste, combined with fresh tomato juice, offer an unforgettable experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 5 kg peppers
- 10 kg tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Water (optional, for adjusting the consistency of the juice)
- Fresh celery leaves

The story behind the recipe

Preparing peppers in tomato sauce is a tradition that dates back generations. This preservation process has been used to keep garden vegetables so that they can be enjoyed throughout the year. The peppers, with their distinct flavor, are ideal for use in various dishes, from salads to side dishes for meats. It is a simple recipe, but with spectacular results that will turn any meal into a feast of flavors.

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

The first step in this recipe is to ensure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose firm, quality peppers without blemishes or signs of damage. The tomatoes should be very ripe to obtain a rich and flavorful juice. As for the celery leaves, they add a pleasant aroma and a note of freshness to the dish.

Step 2: Cleaning and cutting the peppers

Wash the peppers well under cold water and remove the stems, seeds, and damaged parts. Cut them into quarters or smaller pieces, depending on your preferences. If you like crunchier peppers, you can cut them larger.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato juice

To obtain fresh tomato juice, wash the tomatoes and cut them in half. Use a food processor or a grinder to puree the tomatoes. Transfer the obtained puree to a large pot and put it on medium heat. Let it boil, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. If you notice that the juice is too thick, gradually add water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Seasoning the juice

Once the juice has started to boil, add salt to taste. You can start with about 2-3 tablespoons and adjust later. The combination is tasty, but it depends on your preferences. Taste periodically to ensure you have achieved the desired flavor.

Step 5: Assembling the jars

Start preparing the jars, ensuring they are clean and sterilized. Place the peppers in the jars, alternating with the celery leaves. This detail will not only add a special taste but will also enhance the appearance of the dish.

Step 6: Pouring the tomato juice

Once the peppers are nicely arranged in the jars, carefully pour the hot tomato juice over them, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave a small space at the top of the jar for air expansion.

Step 7: The preservation process

After filling the jars, seal them tightly with the lids. Place the jars in a large pot of hot water, being careful not to let water enter the jars. Boil them for about 15-20 minutes to ensure proper preservation. After you take them out, let them cool under a blanket to form a vacuum.

Step 8: Storage

Once the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. You can keep them in the pantry, where they will last up to a year without losing quality.

Serving suggestions and combinations

Peppers in tomato sauce can be served alongside a juicy steak, as an appetizer, or even in winter salads. You can also use them to prepare sauces for pasta or pizza. Another idea is to add them to stews to intensify the flavor.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other spices, such as pepper, sweet paprika, or even garlic for a stronger taste. You can also replace the celery leaves with bay leaves or oregano for a different aroma.

Nutritional benefits

Peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, having antioxidant properties that help strengthen the immune system. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This recipe for peppers in tomato sauce is not only delicious but also healthy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen peppers?
Although fresh peppers yield the best results, you can also use frozen peppers. However, their texture will be different after thawing.

2. How can I tell if the jars have sealed properly?
Check if the lid is flat and does not give when pressed. If it pops up, it may not have formed a proper vacuum.

3. What other vegetables can I preserve in the same way?
You can try the same method with bell peppers, eggplants, or even cucumbers. Each vegetable will bring a unique note to your dish.

Peppers in tomato sauce are a simple and delicious recipe that will bring smiles to your table. Follow the steps above and enjoy the flavor of these preserved vegetables, which will remind you of warm summer days, even in the middle of winter. Bon appétit!