How to Preserve Bell Peppers

Bell Peppers

Purchase:

The BELL PEPPER or PIMENTO is a fruit vegetable because it contains seeds inside.

Its colors vary: they can be burgundy, red, green, or yellow, and their flavor is slightly sweet.

Bell peppers are also sold in powdered form as paprika (spice). (See spices).


Freshness of Bell Peppers:

When selecting fresh bell peppers, consider the following:

  • Choose firm and ripe peppers: Ripe bell peppers are sweeter and contain more nutrients than unripe green peppers.
  • Avoid damaged peppers: Do not select peppers with spots or cuts on the skin, as they may be damaged or rotten inside.
  • Select the appropriate size: Choose peppers that match your intended use. For example, if you plan to stuff them, opt for larger, elongated peppers.
  • Try different colors: Bell peppers come in various colors—green, red, yellow, and purple. Each color offers a unique flavor and sweetness level, so experiment with different colors for a variety of tastes.

If buying bell peppers at a local market or fair, touch and smell them to ensure they are fresh and of good quality.

Supermarket tips:

  1. Make sure the display area is clean and adequately refrigerated.
  2. Select products in this order: vegetables, fruits, eggs, cheeses and dairy products, pantry items, and finally, meats, poultry, fish, and seafood.
  3. Once home, store the bell peppers in the refrigerator to maintain the “cold chain” and keep them fresh.

Uses:

  • As a seasoning (paprika): Commonly used in dishes like paella, arroz a la valenciana, arroz con pollo, and others.
  • As an ingredient: Perfect for Asian cuisine, salads, and rice dishes.
  • As a side dish: Ideal for stuffing and gratins, among others.

Proper Storage to Preserve Bell Peppers:

Bell peppers are versatile and delicious vegetables that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. They are also rich in nutrients and a great addition to any diet. To keep them fresh and flavorful, follow these tips:

Refrigerating Fresh Bell Peppers:

Place bell peppers in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator without any packaging or wrapping, even if they are cut. This helps them stay fresh and prevents spoilage.

  1. Wash and dry before storing: Rinse fresh bell peppers with cold water and dry them with a clean cloth before placing them in the refrigerator. This removes dirt or bacteria from the surface.
  2. Freezing: If you have a large quantity of fresh peppers and won’t use them soon, freeze them to extend their shelf life. Cut the peppers into slices or cubes, sauté them in olive oil (just until crispy, not soft), let them cool, and place them in freezer bags. To use, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before or defrost at room temperature.

Refrigerated Storage:

Whole, clean, and dry peppers stay fresh in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator, either loose or in a mesh bag.

  • If already cut, place the pepper cut-side down on a dry paper towel in an open container or loose in the vegetable drawer. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator door.
  • Do not use closed containers, as they can cause peppers to spoil quickly.

Other Storage Methods:

  • Freezing: Frozen peppers are best for use in soups or sauces, as their texture softens.
  • Preserves and jams: Peppers can be used to make preserves and sweet jams.

Shelf Life:

  • Refrigerated: Approximately 10 days if whole; about 5 days if cut.
  • Frozen: Around 4 months.

Tips:

  • If cut, their shelf life will be longer if stored cut-side down in a container (preferably plastic, without a lid) with a dry paper towel at the bottom.
  • Store in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze raw peppers, as their texture and flavor may change.

Nutrients and Properties:

Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. They are also rich in vitamin A, vitamin B6, and iron, and are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Here is a summary of the main nutritional properties of bell peppers per 100 grams:

  • Calories: 31
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6.3 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Vitamin C: 187 mg (about 315% of the daily recommended intake)
  • Vitamin A: 1702 IU (about 34% of the daily recommended intake)
  • Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg (about 10% of the daily recommended intake)
  • Iron: 0.9 mg (about 10% of the daily recommended intake)

Note:

Regularly check the condition of stored peppers to ensure they are consumed in time.

Visit our YouTube channel


Discover more from Food Preservation

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

error: Content is protected !!
Scroll to Top

Discover more from Food Preservation

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading