Flavored broth with peppers

Spicy Pepper Broth – A Garden Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Total: 3-3.5 hours
Number of servings: 20-25 jars (depending on jar size)

Pepper broth is a classic dish, full of flavor, reminiscent of warm summer days and the bountiful harvests of the garden. This broth can be used as a base for soups, sauces, or even as a flavorful condiment for various dishes. It is a simple recipe, yet rich in history, with each ingredient playing its role in creating a perfect taste.

Ingredients

- 40 kg ripe tomatoes (preferably from the garden)
- 3 kg peppers (preferably bell peppers or kapia)
- 8 tablespoons coarse salt
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 packets of preservative (7 g each)
- oil for topping the broth in bottles

Preparation of Ingredients

1. Tomatoes: Choose well-ripened tomatoes, free from spots or damaged areas. Quality tomatoes are essential for a flavorful and tasty broth. Wash them well under cold running water and cut them into quarters, removing the stems.

2. Peppers: Opt for meaty peppers, which will add a natural sweetness to the broth. Cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds, and wash them well.

Preparation of the Broth

1. Boiling: Place the chopped tomatoes and peppers in a large pot. This is the moment when the flavors blend, so don’t rush. Boil them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are well softened, about 1-1.5 hours.

2. Cooling: Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool. This step is important because if you mix the hot broth, it may be too difficult to strain.

3. Straining: Use a large strainer to filter the vegetable mixture. You can use a wooden spatula to help extract the juice.

4. Reducing the juice: Put the strained juice back to boil in another container and let it simmer over low heat, stirring periodically with a large wooden spoon, until it thickens. This process will concentrate the flavors and give the broth a richer texture.

5. Seasoning: When the juice has reached the desired consistency, add salt, sugar, pepper, and preservative. Mix well and let it boil for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

Bottling

1. Filling the bottles: Pour the hot broth into sterilized bottles, leaving a little space at the top.

2. Oil on top: Add a little olive oil on top of the broth in each bottle. This will help prevent oxidation and keep the broth fresh longer.

3. Capping: Seal the bottles with their caps and cover them with thick blankets to cool gradually for 2-3 days. This process allows the flavors to settle and intensify.

4. Storing: Once the bottles have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The broth can be kept for a year, but it is preferable to consume it during the cold season.

Practical Tips

- Sterilizing Bottles: It is essential to sterilize the bottles before use to prevent contamination. You can do this by boiling or using the oven.
- Adjusting Flavor: If you prefer a spicier broth, you can add hot peppers or spices like paprika.
- Variations: Try adding herbs like basil or oregano for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Values

This broth is an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants due to the tomatoes. Additionally, peppers provide a significant amount of vitamin C. Each serving (approximately 100 ml) contains about 30 calories, making it a healthy and light option.

Delicious Combinations

The spicy pepper broth pairs perfectly with:

- Pasta: It can be used as a sauce for pasta, adding an intense flavor and rich texture.
- Soup: Use it as a base for vegetable or meat soup.
- Pizza: Use it as a sauce for pizza, adding a rich and flavorful layer of tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can add carrots or onions to enrich the broth's flavor.
- How can I tell if the broth is spoiled? Check for any color changes or unpleasant odors. If you notice anything suspicious, it’s better not to consume it.
- How long does the broth last? If stored properly, the broth can last for a year.

Try this spicy pepper broth recipe and let yourself be carried away by summer memories. Each bottle will bring a touch of your garden's sunshine to your plate, providing warmth and comfort in every bite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 40 kg tomatoes, 3 kg peppers, 8 tablespoons coarse salt, 8 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 3 packets of preservative (7 g), oil to pour over the broth in bottles.