Bulgarian Pepper Lecho with Tomato and Carrot
A gently simmered pepper and tomato stew with carrots, onion, garlic and fresh herbs.
This pepper lecho combines sweet bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots and onion in a gently simmered tomato base. The source seasons the vegetables with garlic, a little sugar and vinegar, then adds fresh herbs near the end. Slice the vegetables evenly so they soften at a similar pace, and simmer uncovered briefly if the tomatoes release more liquid than expected. The result can be served warm as a vegetable side or cooled and chilled for a brighter, relish-like accompaniment. This home recipe is for immediate eating and refrigeration, not pantry canning. Seed and slice peppers; slice carrots and onions. Peel tomatoes by scoring and briefly blanching, then chop. Heat oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Cook onion and carrot 6 to 8 minutes until beginning to soften.
Recipe card
Bulgarian Pepper Lecho with Tomato and Carrot
Equipment: Knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, large skillet or saucepan
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare vegetables
Seed and slice peppers; slice carrots and onions. Peel tomatoes by scoring and briefly blanching, then chop.
Soften aromatics
Heat oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Cook onion and carrot 6 to 8 minutes until beginning to soften.
Add peppers
Stir in peppers and garlic; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Simmer
Add tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until vegetables are tender.
Finish
Stir in herbs during the final 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm or cool and refrigerate.
How to tell when it is ready
Carrots are tender and peppers are soft but not falling apart.
Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for a fuller sauce.
- Cut vegetables into similar widths.
- Simmer gently to keep pepper pieces intact.
- Taste after adding vinegar before adjusting acidity.
Troubleshooting
- If the dish cooks unevenly, cut ingredients into similar sizes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Substitutions
- Use a similar neutral cooking oil if needed.
- Choose fresh herbs that complement the dish.
Variations
- Adjust herbs or seasoning to taste.
- Add a pinch of chilli for gentle heat.
Serving suggestions
- Serve with grilled meat.
- Spoon over rice or potatoes.
- Offer with crusty bread.
- Serve chilled as a relish.
Make ahead
Prepare and measure ingredients in advance; finish cooking shortly before serving.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Food safety
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. This recipe has not been validated for shelf-stable canning.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare this ahead?
Prepare suitable components ahead and refrigerate them promptly.
How should I store bulgarian pepper lecho?
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Serve warm and refrigerate leftovers promptly.
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