Bulgarian Lecho
Description
Perfect for winter pantry stocks. Bulgarian-style lecho is an amazingly aromatic and delicious winter preserve. Moreover, it can be used not only as an appetizer or side dish, but also for preparing meat dishes. Serve at the table or store in the pantry.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. The first and rather lengthy step is preparing all the ingredients. To begin, wash the tomatoes, remove the stems, and cut them into small pieces.
- 2
Step 2
2. The Bulgarian lecho recipe calls for a completely smooth, uniform tomato sauce. Therefore, the tomatoes should be passed through a meat grinder or blended until puréed.
- 3
Step 3
3. Pour the prepared tomato juice into a large pot with high sides and place over heat. After it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- 4
Step 4
4. Meanwhile, wash the peppers, remove the seeds and stems, and slice them into thin rings.
- 5
Step 5
5. When the tomato has reduced a bit, you can add the pepper. Don’t let the amount worry you—it will settle down quite soon.
- 6
Step 6
6. Now you can stir and simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes. For aromatic homemade Bulgarian lecho, combine the pepper and cloves in a mortar and grind thoroughly.
- 7
Step 7
7. Salt the lecho, add the spices and sugar. Mix well and simmer over low heat for about 15–20 minutes. Add the vinegar approximately 5 minutes before the end of cooking.
- 8
Step 8
8. When the peppers are soft, you can pack the lecho into jars and seal them.