To start, you will need roasted peppers that have been cooked until their skin is blistered and charred. You can either roast them yourself by placing them directly on a gas burner, under a broiler, or on a grill until the skin blackens and blisters, or you can use store-bought roasted peppers. Either way, once they are fully roasted, they need to be cleaned to remove the charred skin and seeds.
First, place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Allowing the peppers to steam in the covered bowl will help loosen the skin, making it easier to remove. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes.
After the peppers have steamed, remove the plastic wrap and carefully peel off the skin. Start by making a small tear at the top of the pepper and then gently pull the skin away from the flesh. The steaming process should have loosened the skin, making it relatively easy to remove. If you encounter stubborn areas, you can use the back of a knife to scrape off any remaining skin.
Once the skin has been peeled off, use a sharp knife to create a small incision near the top of the pepper and gently cut around the stem. Lift the stem out, along with the seeds and the white pith attached to it. Discard the stem and seeds, or alternatively, you can save the seeds if you plan on growing your own peppers.
Next, rinse the peppers under cold running water to remove any residual seeds or skin. Make sure to rinse the inside as well to ensure a clean and fresh flavor. Pat the peppers dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
At this point, your roasted peppers are ready to be used in your favorite recipes. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze them for later use. To freeze roasted peppers, lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until they are completely frozen. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Cleaning roasted peppers may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and the right techniques, it can be done easily. The reward of having perfectly cleaned peppers that are ready to use in your favorite dishes makes the effort well worth it. So, the next time you’re preparing roasted peppers, follow these simple steps and enjoy the fresh, clean flavors they bring to your meals.