Lyutenitsa is a popular Bulgarian condiment made from roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and various vegetables. It’s a versatile spread that pairs wonderfully with bread, grilled meats, or even as a dip.
Ingredients
For the Lyutenitsa, you will need:
- 2 kg of red bell peppers
- 1 kg of ripe tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 head of garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup of sunflower oil or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Roasting the Vegetables
- Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Wash the red bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and eggplants.
- Roast the Bell Peppers and Eggplants: Place the whole red bell peppers and eggplants on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and the vegetables are soft.
- Roast the Tomatoes and Carrots: On a separate baking sheet, place the whole tomatoes and peeled carrots. Roast for about 20-30 minutes, until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Peeling and Chopping
- Cool and Peel: Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel the skins off the bell peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants. The skins should come off easily.
- Chop the Vegetables: Chop the peeled vegetables and place them in a large pot. Grate the carrots and add them to the pot as well.
Step 3: Cooking the Lyutenitsa
- Add Garlic and Oil: Add the peeled garlic cloves and sunflower oil to the pot with the chopped vegetables.
- Simmer: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft and most of the liquid has evaporated. This should take about 1-2 hours.
- Season: Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and vinegar. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Blending
- Blend the Mixture: Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender in batches. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, sugar, or vinegar to suit your taste.
Step 5: Storing
- Jar the Lyutenitsa: While the Lyutenitsa is still hot, spoon it into sterilized jars. Seal the jars and let them cool completely.
- Store: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the Lyutenitsa in the refrigerator.
Serving
Lyutenitsa is delicious served as a spread on fresh bread, as a side to grilled meats, or as a dip for vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations
- Spicy Lyutenitsa: Add some roasted hot peppers to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Chunky Version: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend the mixture less or mash it with a potato masher instead of blending.
- Extra Garlic: For garlic lovers, increase the amount of garlic for a more pronounced flavor.
Lyutenitsa is a beloved Bulgarian spread that captures the essence of roasted vegetables and savory flavors. It’s a versatile condiment that can enhance many dishes. Enjoy making and sharing this traditional recipe with your friends and family!