Tomato paste with peppers

Tomato paste with peppers is a delicious and versatile dish that brings a touch of summer to every meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for preserving the taste of ripe, sweet tomatoes and colorful peppers. Whether you use it as a base for sauces, soups, or as a main ingredient in various dishes, tomato paste with peppers will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Total preparation time: 1 hour 10 minutes (45-50 minutes of cooking + 20 minutes of preparation)
Number of servings: 4-5 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg homegrown tomatoes (choose ripe and firm tomatoes for an intense flavor)
- 4-5 large peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant appearance)
- 2 teaspoons salt (helps preserve and enhance flavors)

Necessary utensils:
- Large pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Clean jars (preferably sterilized)
- Blanket to retain heat

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the tomatoes and peppers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. The tomatoes should be ripe and full of flavor, and you can choose your favorite peppers: red, yellow, or green, each bringing a different taste.

Step 2: Blanching the tomatoes
To remove the skin, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, immerse the tomatoes for a few minutes until the skin starts to crack. Then, immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. This simple trick will make your job easier and will make the tomatoes very easy to peel.

Step 3: Chopping the ingredients
After peeling the tomatoes, chop them finely. Do the same with the peppers, removing the stems and seeds. You can use a sharp knife or, if you enjoy playing with utensils, a food processor can be very helpful to achieve a uniform texture.

Step 4: Cooking the paste
In a large pot, add the chopped tomatoes and peppers along with the two teaspoons of salt. Place the pot over low heat and stir occasionally, allowing the ingredients to simmer slowly. This will help release the natural juices and intensify the flavors. Be careful not to raise the temperature too much, as you want to achieve a smooth paste, not an overcooked sauce.

Step 5: Preserving
After about 45-50 minutes, the paste should have reduced and have a thicker consistency. Turn off the heat and start pouring the paste into the clean jars. Make sure the jars are filled almost to the brim, but leave a little space for expansion. Close the lid tightly and cover the jars with a blanket to keep them warm. Leave them like this until the next day to seal properly.

Practical tips:
- Choose the best ingredients: Summer tomatoes, sun-ripened, offer the best taste. If you can, choose local or organic varieties. Peppers can be chosen according to your preferences, but sweet ones are the best for a delicious paste.
- Preservation: Make sure the jars are completely clean and sterilized to prevent bacterial growth.
- Variations: You can add spices like basil or oregano for a more complex flavor. If you like a spicy sauce, you can also add a hot pepper to the mix.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomato paste with peppers is rich in vitamins A and C, essential minerals, and antioxidants. Tomatoes are known for their beneficial properties for heart health, while peppers add an extra boost of fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Although fresh tomatoes provide the best taste, you can use canned tomatoes, but make sure they are not overly processed.
- How can I use tomato paste with peppers? This paste is excellent for pizza, pasta, soups, or even as a base for various sauces.
- How long can the paste be stored? If well sealed, the paste can be stored in the pantry for a few months. Once opened, it is recommended to consume it within 1-2 weeks.

Serving and pairing:
To create a memorable meal, serve tomato paste with peppers alongside fresh pasta, grated cheese, and a few fresh basil leaves. You can also use it as a base for a homemade pizza, adding your favorite toppings.

End this culinary experience with a refreshing white wine or a summer cocktail! Tomato paste with peppers is not just a dish; it's an invitation to bring family and friends together to savor the authentic flavors of the season. I hope you enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, creating delicious memories!