Ingredients List:
- 2 red onions, finely chopped to form a savory base.
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped for a fragrant depth.
- 1 green pepper, finely chopped for a crisp, vegetal note.
- 1 red pepper, finely chopped for sweet and vibrant tones.
- 1 teaspoon crushed hot pepper, to introduce a bold heat.
- 1 teaspoon ground red pepper, for a smoky undertone.
- 2 tablespoons tomato puree, to add richness and body.
- 1 can of tomato paste, for concentration and intensity.
- A pinch of salt, to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste, for an extra zing.
- Olive oil, approximately 2 tablespoons, for sautéing.
Preparing Tomato and Pepper Jam
In a kitchen where culinary creations come to life, one begins by warming a skillet over medium heat, where approximately two tablespoons of olive oil are gently poured. Into this shimmering pool of oil, finely diced red onion and garlic are introduced, their aromas mingling as they sauté for a duration of five minutes. This initial sauté sets the stage for the addition of vibrant red and green peppers, their colors a promise of the flavorful concoction to come.
As the mixture becomes fragrant, a hint of spice is welcomed with the inclusion of crushed hot pepper and ground pepper, their fiery notes dancing through the air. To this sizzling ensemble, tomato puree and tomato paste are added, transforming the skillet’s contents into a rich, promising base. The concoction is then left to simmer at a steady, moderate heat for approximately 45 minutes, during which it thickens into a luxurious jam, a testament to the patience and care invested in its creation. Seasoning with salt and pepper is the final touch, an act that ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced.
Storing the Jam for Immediate Use or Long-Term Preservation
For those eager to enjoy their homemade tomato and pepper jam without delay, the hot, thickened mixture is carefully transferred into a clean jar, which is then sealed tightly, capturing the essence of the flavors within. However, for individuals looking ahead, planning for a taste of summer during the winter months, a more meticulous process is undertaken. Jars and lids are thoroughly washed, preferably in a dishwasher set to 60 C, to ensure sterilization. These prepared containers are then placed in an oven, set to a gentle warmth of about 70 C for thirty minutes, a precautionary step to ensure the longevity of the jam.
Once the jam has reached its desired consistency, it is poured into these hot jars, an action that must be performed swiftly and carefully to preserve its freshness. Sealed with a metal lid, these jars embark on one final step in their preservation journey, returning to the oven, now at 60 C, for an additional 10-15 minutes. This process not only secures the jam’s flavors but also its safety, ensuring that each jar is a time capsule of summer, ready to be opened during the colder months, offering a taste of the season’s warmth and vibrancy.