Lyutenitsa Recipe

Lyutenitsa is a popular Balkan condiment known for its rich flavor and versatility. Originating from Bulgaria, it is made primarily from tomatoes and red peppers, with variations including eggplant, carrots, and different spices. Traditionally made during autumn to preserve summer's bountiful produce, lyutenitsa is enjoyed spread on bread or as a side to meat and other dishes.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes - 2 kg
• Red peppers - 1.5 kg
• Eggplant - 500g
• Carrots - 300g
• Garlic - 5 cloves
• Onion - 2 large
• Salt - to taste
• Sugar - 50g
• Olive oil - 100 ml
• Vinegar - 2 tbsp
• Black pepper - to taste
• Paprika - 1 tbsp
• Chili - optional, for heat

Preparation

To start making lyutenitsa, gather all your ingredients. It is essential to use fresh, high-quality produce to ensure the best flavor for the final product. Wash your tomatoes, red peppers, eggplant, and carrots thoroughly.

Roasting the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Place the tomatoes, red peppers, and eggplant on a tray lined with baking paper. Roast them for about 30-40 minutes until the skins are charred and the vegetables are soft.
3. Meanwhile, peel and chop the carrots and onion. Mince the garlic.
4. In a pan, add some olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the carrots and continue to cook until softened.

Blending and Cooking

1. Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and cool slightly. Peel the skin off the tomatoes and red peppers. Discard any seeds from the peppers as well.
2. Place the roasted tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, softened carrots, onion, and garlic in a blender and process until smooth.
3. Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Add salt, sugar, vinegar, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, and chili if using.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. This may take 2-3 hours, so use a cooking timer to keep track.

Preserving the Lyutenitsa

1. Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for at least 10 minutes.
2. Once the lyutenitsa is thick and spreadable, fill the sterilized jars while the mixture is hot, leaving some space at the top.
3. Seal with lids and place the jars in a pot of boiling water for another 10 minutes to ensure the seal is tight.
4. Allow the jars to cool overnight on a towel. Ensure all jars are properly sealed; refrigerate any jars that didn't seal.

How to Enjoy Lyutenitsa

Lyutenitsa is best enjoyed as a tasty spread on crusty bread, or as an addition to cheese boards. Pair it with grilled meats, like chicken or pork, to add a burst of flavor. It also makes an excellent dip for vegetables or crackers.

Store your jars of lyutenitsa in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate after opening for the best preservation. Consume within a few weeks for optimal taste and freshness.