Traditional Bulgarian Ljutenica Recipe

Ingredients

  • 10 ripe red peppers
  • 5 ripe tomatoes
  • 2 medium-sized carrots
  • 1 medium-sized eggplant
  • 1 medium-sized onion
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 2 chili peppers (optional for added spice)
  • 1/2 cup sunflower oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
  2. Roast the red peppers and eggplant on a grill or in the oven until their skin is blackened.
  3. Once they are well roasted, put the peppers and eggplant in a plastic bag and tie it, allowing them to steam in their own heat for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to peel them.
  4. Peel off the skins of the peppers and eggplant and remove their seeds. Also, chop the ends off the chili peppers and discard any seeds.
  5. Grate the tomatoes and carrots, finely chop the onion and garlic, then mix them together in a bowl.
  6. In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic mixture, and sauté until they become soft.
  7. Add the grated tomatoes and carrots to the pot, then cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often.
  8. Chop the roasted and peeled peppers, eggplant, and chili peppers into small pieces, then add them to the pot.
  9. Add the sugar, vinegar, and salt to the pot and stir well.
  10. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens up to your preferred consistency.
  11. Once the Ljutenica is done, let it cool down a little then pour it into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. It can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add roasted red bell peppers or other types of peppers for a different flavor profile.
  • Replace the tomatoes with a combination of tomato paste and passata for a richer tomato taste.
  • Experiment with different spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or cumin to add more depth to the flavor.
  • Include other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and taste.
  • For a sweeter version, add a small amount of honey or brown sugar.
  • Make it spicier by adding more chili peppers or hot sauce.
  • For a smoky flavor, you can grill the tomatoes and other vegetables before using them in the recipe.
  • Add herbs such as basil, parsley, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
  • To make it creamier, stir in some yogurt or sour cream at the end.
  • For a vegan version, omit the honey and use a plant-based oil instead of sunflower oil.

Recipe overview

Discover the rich, savory flavors of Ljutenica, a traditional Bulgarian vegetable spread that is a staple in many households. Made with a blend of roasted red peppers, tomatoes, carrots, eggplant, onion, garlic, and a hint of chili for an optional kick, this recipe offers a delightful medley of tastes. You will be guided through the process of roasting and peeling vegetables, simmering the ingredients into a thick, satisfying spread, and then preserving it in jars for future use. Expect a labor of love that pays off with a versatile condiment, perfect for spreading on bread, serving with meat, or even just enjoying with a spoon right out of the jar. Dive into the process and savor the results of your homemade Ljutenica.

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of peppers? Yes, you can use different types of peppers according to your preference. However, red peppers are traditional and provide a rich flavor.
  2. Can I substitute sunflower oil with another type of oil? Yes, you can substitute sunflower oil with vegetable oil or olive oil if desired.
  3. Is it necessary to roast the peppers and eggplant? Roasting the peppers and eggplant adds a smoky flavor to the Ljutenica. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can skip this step and use them raw.
  4. Can I adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste. Add more or less based on your preference.
  5. How long does Ljutenica last once it is prepared? When stored in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place, Ljutenica can last up to a year.
  6. Can I add other vegetables or spices? Certainly! Feel free to experiment and add other vegetables or spices to customize the flavor of your Ljutenica.
  7. Is Ljutenica spicy? Ljutenica can have a mild or spicy taste depending on the chili peppers used. If you prefer it less spicy, you can omit the chili peppers entirely.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and cutting vegetables.
  • Knife - Essential for slicing and dicing the ingredients.
  • Grill or Oven - Required for roasting the red peppers and eggplant.
  • Plastic Bag - Used to steam the roasted peppers and eggplant, making it easier to peel them.
  • Bowl - For mixing the grated tomatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
  • Large Pot - Used for cooking and simmering the Ljutenica.
  • Stirring Spoon - For stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Sterilized Jars - To store the finished Ljutenica.

Origin stories

Ljutenica, a beloved relish hailing from the Balkans, has been a staple in Bulgarian kitchens for generations. Originating from a time when every ingredient was a precious commodity, families would gather in the late summer to prepare for the long winter months. They would roast and peel peppers, grate ripe tomatoes, and finely chop onions to create this savoury spread. Traditionally, this was a communal event, bringing together entire neighbourhoods. The name “Ljutenica” stems from the Bulgarian word “ljut”, which translates to “spicy” or “hot”, a nod to the sometimes fiery nature of this cherished condiment. These days, each family has their own unique Ljutenica recipe, often passed down through the generations, each one a testament to their ancestry and culinary history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.