Texture
The skin of the pepper should be smooth and free from any bruises, cuts, or blemishes. Avoid peppers with soft spots, as this could indicate spoilage.
RED PEPPER
If you want to add a spicy twist to your diet, add some Red peppers
Fun facts about Red pepper
Red peppers are high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, surpassing oranges in this regard. They also provide vitamin A, B6, folate, and potassium.
Red peppers are culturally important in various cuisines, such as Spanish paella, Italian pasta arrabbiata, and Mexican salsa roja.
- Capsaicin from red peppers is a key component of pepper spray, a self-defence tool used by law enforcement and individuals.
- In some cultures, like in Hungary, red peppers are associated with Halloween traditions where they’re carved with faces and used as lanterns.
- Red peppers are culturally significant, notably as Hungary’s national symbol, and are integral to Hungarian dishes like goulash and paprikash.
A step-by-step guide to pick some good Red peppers
Size and Shape
Choose peppers that are firm and have a uniform shape. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are filled with flesh and have a good water content.
Stem
Check the stem of the pepper; it should be green and fresh-looking. A dried-out or brown stem could indicate that the pepper is old or past its prime
Health Benefits
Rich in Vitamin C, A and K
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Boosts
Metabolism
Excellent Source of Carotenoids
Good Source of Dietary Fibre
Two quick and healthy Red pepper recipes
Recipe 1: Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled (you can use jarred roasted peppers for convenience)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: extra olive oil, paprika, chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
- Preheat your oven broiler. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and broil for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers steam for about 10 minutes.
- Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with extra olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- Enjoy your homemade roasted red pepper hummus!
Recipe 2: Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 large red bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh basil, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add diced red bell peppers to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
- Remove the soup from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil, croutons, or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting red pepper and tomato soup!
For more easy and healthy Red Pepper recipes watch the video :