Homemade Spicy Tomato and Pepper Sauce

This homemade spicy tomato and pepper sauce is a delightful addition to any meal. Made from fresh tomatoes and vibrant peppers, it brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table. The sauce is perfectly seasoned with garlic, salt, and a hint of sugar for balance. Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of flavor and color, making it an appealing condiment. This sauce is easy to prepare and can be stored at room temperature, making it convenient for any time use. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, grilled meats, or even as a dip. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it a healthy option. This recipe provides a taste of summer that can be enjoyed year-round. Perfect for preserving the abundance of seasonal harvest, this sauce is a pantry staple.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 kg fresh tomatoes
2 kg sweet peppers
1 bunch of parsley

Spices and Seasonings

2 tablespoons salt
100-150 ml sugar
6 cloves of garlic
Black pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them into quarters leaving the skin intact.
In a large pot, place the diced tomatoes and bring them to a boil. Let them simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the tomatoes haven't dissolved completely, use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother consistency. Otherwise, mash them gently with a spatula.
While the tomatoes are cooking, prepare the peppers. Remove the seeds and slice them into thin strips.
Chop the parsley finely, ensuring the stems are removed for a milder taste.
Once the tomatoes are ready, add the sliced peppers, chopped parsley, salt, and sugar to the pot.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt or sugar as needed.
Continue to simmer everything together for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Mince the garlic cloves finely or use a garlic press for ease.
Add the minced garlic into the simmering sauce, stirring well.
Let the sauce cook for a few more minutes to mellow the garlic's intensity.
Prepare sterilized jars by heating them in an oven. Use caution as the jars will be hot.
Pour the hot sauce carefully into the prepared jars, ensuring no excess air bubbles are trapped.
Seal the jars tightly with lids to maintain freshness.
Allow the jars to cool at room temperature before storing.
The sauce can be safely stored at room temperature until opened.
This versatile sauce can be used as a base for many dishes or simply enjoyed on its own.

Tips

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or fresh chili peppers.
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly.
Fresh basil can be added for an herbal twist.

Nutrition

Approximate values per serving: 70 calories, 2g protein, 0.5g fat, 15g carbohydrates

Variations

Use green or yellow peppers for a different color and taste.
Include a splash of vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Swap sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a condiment with grilled chicken or steak.
Great as a topping for bruschetta or crostini.
Combine with pasta or use as a pizza sauce base.

Best Places

Le Tomato - A charming eatery known for its fresh tomato-based dishes. Location: 1100 Rue de Tomatoes, Paris, France.
Pepper House - Specializes in spicy pepper sauces and innovative cuisine. Location: 555 Spice Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
Garden Delight - Offers a menu full of fresh, local produce inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Location: 12 Greenway, Sydney, Australia.
Spice Kitchen - Famous for its unique spice blends and flavorful dishes. Location: 89 Culinary Lane, New Delhi, India.
Basil & Tomatoes - Known for their traditional sauces and garden-to-table approach. Location: 23 Harvest Blvd, Rome, Italy.
Herb Haven - A place where herbs and spices take center stage in every dish. Location: 32 Flavor St, San Francisco, USA.
Rustico - A rustic restaurant with a focus on homemade sauces and pastas. Location: 45 Rustic Lane, Milan, Italy.
Chili Pepper Cafe - Known for its wide range of spicy dishes and sauces. Location: 78 Heatwave Ave, Mexico City, Mexico.
Tomato & Basil Garden - Offers a fresh take on classic recipes with garden-fresh ingredients. Location: 34 Fresh Herbs St, Lisbon, Portugal.
Flavor Palette - A delightful place for sauce lovers and culinary adventurers. Location: 67 Gourmet Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.