SURVIVING THE CAPSICUM SHORTAGE

This week we woke to the tragic news of New Zealand’s very own capsicum shortage. The news was cemented again when we ventured to the supermarket only to be presented with a choice of only green and yellow capsicums.

This shortage will no doubt bring on the panic buying, as customers fight for the last chance to get the crisp red veggie that is a staple in all Kiwi’s diets. Luckily, there is an alternative product for those of you who refuse to buy green capsicums.

Turn to the jar. Canned vegetables take up a considerable portion of supermarket shelf space with both New World and PAK’nSAVE selling over four million jars annually.

So, take a depth breath, as roasted red peppers are available by the jar at all leading supermarkets.  Picked at their prime and lovingly preserved fresh, these capsicums will have you thinking the shortage is over.

Preserved peppers can also be used in recipes or as a tasty and colourful addition to platters. Get inspired by the jar – so that when capsicums are in plentiful supply, you can make your own preserves and savour a bit of summer next winter.