Dorset-style Roasted Red Pepper Relish

Ingredients

While the original Serbian ajvar is typically made with roasted red peppers, eggplant, and garlic, our Dorset-style Roasted Red Pepper Relish focuses solely on the red peppers. By omitting the eggplant and garlic, we allow the natural sweetness and smokiness of the peppers to shine through. Additionally, we incorporate Dorset's culinary preferences by adding a touch of tanginess with vinegar and lemon juice, enhancing the relish's overall flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Leskovački domaći ajvar, so you can check it out.

• 6 large red bell peppers (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 6 large red bell peppers (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml) 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml) 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (5 g) 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2.5 g) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2.5 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (1.25 g) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (1.25 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (1.25 g) 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (1.25 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (1.25 g) 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (1.25 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (1.25 g) 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (1.25 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (1.25 g) 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (1.25 g)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 9g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. 2.
   Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil.
3. 3.
   Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered.
4. 4.
   Remove the peppers from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers cool for 15 minutes.
5. 5.
   Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skins and discard them. Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers.
6. 6.
   Chop the roasted red peppers into small pieces and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
7. 7.
   Add the apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and dried rosemary to the bowl. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
8. 8.
   Transfer the relish to a sterilized jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Serve the Dorset-style Roasted Red Pepper Relish as a condiment with grilled meats, spread on sandwiches, or as a dip with crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Red bell peppers — Make sure to choose firm and vibrant red bell peppers for the best flavor. Roasting the peppers will enhance their sweetness and smokiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier relish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a finely chopped chili pepper.
• Customize the relish by adding diced onions or minced garlic for additional flavor.
• Store the relish in sterilized jars to extend its shelf life.

Serving advice

Serve the Dorset-style Roasted Red Pepper Relish as a condiment alongside grilled sausages or roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer.

Presentation advice

Transfer the relish to a small serving bowl and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an attractive presentation.