Discover how to make Pindjur, a savory spread made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. This flavorful Balkan dish is perfect as a dip, sandwich spread, or side dish. Follow our easy recipe to create a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a rich, smoky taste to your meals.

Ingredients:

- 4 large red bell peppers

- 4 large tomatoes

- 4 cloves garlic

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

  Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables:

  - Place the red bell peppers and tomatoes on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and the vegetables are tender.

  - Add the garlic cloves to the baking sheet for the last 10 minutes of roasting.

Peel and Chop:

  - Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven. Let them cool slightly. Peel the skins off the peppers and tomatoes. 

  - Remove the seeds from the peppers and chop the peppers, tomatoes, and garlic.

Cook the Mixture:

  - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  - Add the chopped peppers, tomatoes, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and Blend:

  - Stir in the white wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

  - Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to your desired consistency, or transfer to a blender and blend in batches.

Serve or Store:

  - Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

  - Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your homemade Pindjur as a tasty dip with bread, a flavorful spread for sandwiches, or a side dish with your favorite meals!

Nutritional Values

Red Bell Peppers (4 large)

 - Calories: Approximately 30 per medium pepper

 - Carbohydrates: 7 g

 - Vitamin C: High (around 190 mg per pepper)

 - Vitamin A: Rich in beta-carotene

 - Fiber: 2 g

Benefits: 

 - Immune Support: Very high in vitamin C, which boosts immune function.

 - Eye Health: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports vision and eye health.

 - Antioxidants: Contains various antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress.

Tomatoes (4 large)

 - Calories: Approximately 25 per tomato

 - Carbohydrates: 5 g

 - Vitamin C: About 30 mg per tomato

 - Lycopene: High (a powerful antioxidant)

 - Fiber: 1.5 g

Benefits: 

 - Heart Health: Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.

 - Skin Health: Vitamin C supports collagen production and skin health.

 - Antioxidant: Lycopene and other antioxidants help reduce inflammation.

Garlic (4 cloves)

 - Calories: Approximately 10 per clove

 - Carbohydrates: 2.5 g

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

Benefits: 

 - Immune Support: Contains allicin, known for its immune-boosting properties.

 - Heart Health: May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

 - Anti-inflammatory: Offers anti-inflammatory benefits.

Onion (1 large, chopped)

 - Calories: Approximately 45 per 1/2 cup chopped

 - Carbohydrates: 11 g

 - Vitamin C: About 8 mg per 1/2 cup

 - Fiber: 1.5 g

Benefits: 

 - Heart Health: Contains compounds that may reduce cholesterol levels.

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.

 - Digestive Health: Provides dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion.

Olive Oil (1/4 cup)

 - Calories: Approximately 480

 - Fat: 54 g (mainly monounsaturated fats)

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and small amounts of vitamin K.

Benefits: 

 - Heart Health: Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.

 - Digestive Health: May improve digestion and gut health.

White Wine Vinegar (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: Approximately 6

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

Benefits: 

 - Flavor Enhancer: Adds acidity and flavor to dishes without adding significant calories.

 - Digestive Health: May help with digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

 - Salt: Provides sodium (use in moderation to manage blood pressure)

 - Pepper: Adds minimal calories and nutrients.

Benefits: 

 - Salt: Enhances flavor but should be used cautiously to avoid health issues.

 - Pepper: Contains piperine, which can aid digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

Paprika (1/4 teaspoon, optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 2

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and C.

Benefits: 

 - Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

 - Flavor: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to dishes.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 1 per tablespoon

 - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamins A, C, and K, and contains iron and potassium.

Benefits: 

 - Digestive Health: May aid digestion and reduce bloating.

 - Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants that support overall health.

 - Bone Health: Contains vitamin K, which is important for bone health.

These ingredients not only contribute great flavor but also offer numerous health benefits, making your dish both delicious and nutritious.