Gather your Materials
Before we dive into the cleaning process, make sure you have the following materials handy:
- Roasted peppers
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large bowl
- Water
- Paper towels
Step 1: Remove the Core and Seeds
Start by placing the roasted pepper on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the top part of the pepper, including the stem. This will expose the inside of the pepper.
Next, cut a vertical line from the top to the bottom of the pepper, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open up the pepper to reveal the core and seeds.
Using your knife or your fingers, gently remove the core and seeds from the pepper, ensuring you scrape out any remaining seeds attached to the inner walls.
Step 2: Rinse the Pepper
Place the cleaned pepper into a large bowl filled with water. Swish it around gently to dislodge any remaining seeds or bits of charred skin. Repeat this step if necessary.
Step 3: Pat Dry with Paper Towels
Remove the pepper from the bowl and pat it dry using paper towels. Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible, as this will help with the next step.
Step 4: Remove the Skin (optional)
If you prefer to remove the charred skin from your roasted pepper, you can do so by gently rubbing it with a paper towel. The heat from roasting usually loosens the skin, making it easier to peel off. However, keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and texture to the pepper, so removing it is purely optional.
Step 5: Slice or Store
Now that your roasted pepper is clean, you can go ahead and slice it according to your recipe or store it for future use. Place the cleaned pepper in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
And there you have it! By following these easy steps, you can now confidently clean roasted peppers like a pro. Enjoy adding this delicious ingredient to your favorite dishes and explore the wonderful world of roasted peppers!