How to Make Turkish Spicy Red Sauce for Vegetables

Turkish spicy red sauce, known as 'Acılı Sos', is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that elevates any dish, especially vegetables. This easy-to-make sauce combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, peppers, and spices, making it a must-try for any home cook. Below, you'll find a simple recipe for making this delicious sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 large ripe tomatoes
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the tomatoes and red bell peppers thoroughly. Chop them into small pieces, removing the seeds from the bell peppers. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomatoes and peppers instead of chopping.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Add the chopped tomatoes and red bell peppers to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the garlic. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper flakes. This will give your sauce its spicy character. Season with salt to taste. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Blend the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency. If you like it chunky, feel free to leave it as is.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice if using. This adds brightness to the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Turkish spicy red sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled or roasted vegetables, rice dishes, or even as a dipping sauce for bread. For an authentic experience, serve it alongside some grilled meats or as a part of a mezze platter.

Storage

Once cooled, store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it in small portions for later use, making it easy to add a burst of flavor to your meals anytime.

Incorporating 'Acılı Sos' into your cooking is a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, spicy flavors of Turkish cuisine. Whether you use it on vegetables, meats, or as a flavorful condiment, this red sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!