MEMORIES OF MACEDONIA ~ PRŽENI PIPERKI SO LUK (Fried Peppers with Garlic Relish)

bell peppers

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: cabbage

Zucchini offers a similar texture while being lower in calories.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Sunflower oil is more affordable and has a neutral flavor.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is often less expensive and adds a tangy flavor.

garlic

🥗Healthier: shallots

💰Cheaper: onion powder

Onion powder provides a similar flavor profile at a lower cost.

Wash the Shepherd peppers and chop them into approximately 1-inch slices, removing the tops, cores, and seeds.

For hot peppers, remove the ribs and cut them slightly smaller to disperse the heat throughout the dish.

Mince a large amount of garlic using a mortar and pestle to easily remove the skins.

Heat vegetable oil in a pan until hot and add the chopped peppers in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Stir the peppers and add a pinch of sea salt, cooking until they are soft but not charred, about 10-15 minutes.

Once the peppers are wilted and soft, remove them from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.

If necessary, add more oil to the pan and continue cooking the next batch of peppers.

After all batches are cooked, return all the peppers to the pan and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary