There’s something truly satisfying about preserving your own food at home, especially when it’s as delicious as roasted peppers with garlic. This method of canning not only allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of roasted peppers year-round but also ensures that your food is free from chemicals and preservatives. Best of all, when done right, these jars can last up to two years!

Why Canning Roasted Peppers with Garlic?

Roasted peppers have a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the robust taste of garlic. By canning them, you’re capturing these flavors at their peak, ready to be enjoyed whenever you like. Whether you’re using them in salads, sandwiches, or as a tasty side dish, having a jar of these peppers in your pantry is a real treat.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh red peppers

• Fresh garlic cloves

• Olive oil

• Sea salt

• Jars with airtight lids

Instructions:

1. Roast the Peppers: Start by roasting the peppers. You can do this over an open flame, on a grill, or in the oven. Roast them until the skins are charred and blistered, turning them occasionally to ensure they roast evenly. Once they’re done, place the peppers in a bowl and cover them with a towel or plastic wrap for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skins.

2. Prepare the Garlic: While the peppers are resting, peel and slice the garlic cloves. You’ll want enough garlic to layer in the jars with the peppers.

3. Peel and Slice the Peppers: Once the peppers have cooled, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and slice them into strips. The smoky aroma at this stage is irresistible!

4. Pack the Jars: In sterilized jars, start layering the pepper strips and garlic slices. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt between the layers to enhance the flavor. Pour olive oil over the layers until the peppers and garlic are completely submerged. The olive oil acts as a natural preservative, helping to keep your peppers fresh for up to two years.

5. Seal and Store: Once the jars are packed, seal them tightly with airtight lids. Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar.

Why This Method Works

By roasting the peppers and submerging them in olive oil, you’re creating an environment that’s inhospitable to bacteria, which is why these jars can last up to two years without any added chemicals or preservatives. The natural acidity of the garlic also helps in preserving the peppers, ensuring they stay flavorful and safe to eat.

Enjoying Your Roasted Peppers

When you’re ready to enjoy your roasted peppers, simply open a jar, drain off any excess oil, and add them to your favorite dishes. The flavors will have deepened over time, making them even more delicious.

Canning roasted peppers with garlic is a wonderful way to preserve the harvest and enjoy the taste of summer all year long. Give it a try—you’ll love having these jars of goodness in your pantry!