Spicy Calabrian Pepper Spread (Bomba Calabrese)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Calabrian Pepper Spread (Bomba Calabrese).

1. Step 1

   To start, grab your food processor and toss in the quartered mushrooms, chopped onion, and eggplant.

2. Step 2

   Pulse the mixture on and off until everything is finely chopped but still holds its shape—this should take about 8 to 10 pulses.

3. Step 3

   Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Step 4

   Once the oil is shimmering, add your mushroom mixture along with a generous pinch of salt.

5. Step 5

   Sauté this blend, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and fragrant, which should take around 10 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Now, let’s prepare the cherry peppers.

7. Step 7

   Cut off their tops, discarding the stems while keeping the pepper rings intact.

8. Step 8

   Halve the peppers and carefully remove the seeds.

9. Step 9

   Do the same with the red bell peppers and habanero peppers.

10. Step 10

    Once all the peppers are prepped, place them in the food processor and pulse until they’re finely chopped, but be careful not to liquefy them.

11. Step 11

    Transfer the chopped peppers into the skillet with your mushroom mixture.

12. Step 12

    Drizzle in the remaining olive oil and continue cooking over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

13. Step 13

    If you notice the mixture starting to brown too much, simply reduce the heat.

14. Step 14

    You want to cook this until the peppers are sweet and tender, which should take about 20 to 30 minutes.

15. Step 15

    Once everything is beautifully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the white wine vinegar.

16. Step 16

    If you like, you can add another tablespoon of olive oil for extra richness.

17. Step 17

    Now, transfer this vibrant mixture to a mixing bowl and let it cool to room temperature.

18. Step 18

    Don’t forget to taste it! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, vinegar, or olive oil to suit your palate.

19. Step 19

    When it’s cooled down, scoop the spread into jars and store them in the refrigerator.

20. Step 20

    This delightful spread is perfect for sandwiches, as a dip, or even as a topping for your favorite dishes.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch!.