Charred Tomato & Crispy Red Bell Peppers: Flavor, Differences, and Health Benefits

One thing food lovers and chefs have in common is quality, from the freshness of the ingredient to the meal itself. No one jokes with the quality. 

And we at Aso Rock Market know how important this is to our customers; hence, we put in extra effort to source the best of the best products for our customers, because africans don't joke about flavor and quality. 

One of the most sought-after ingredients and fresh produce in the store is Bell Peppers, either green or red, and charred tomatoes. Either you choose to roast them just to awaken that smoky flavor for your stew, or you choose to just blend them into a smooth paste for your hot sauce, or you just choose to use them for your catfish pepper soup. But these peppers will always remain the base ingredient for every other special delicacy that is made. 

Beyond the taste and sweetness, a lot of our walking customers always ask, "Is red pepper the same as cayenne pepper?" And what are the health benefits of roasted tomatoes and peppers? 

So let’s answer the question and break it down  once and for all.

Photo by Italianbellavita

Charred Tomato and Crispy Red Bell Peppers in Cooking

To unlock the richness and the smoky flavor, you may have to roast or charr your tomatoes and red bell peppers. Charring your tomatoes caramelizes the natural sugars from heat, making them sweeter and richer. 

Same for crispy red bell peppers; the skin gets roasted while the inside remains soft and packed with all the flavors.

When africans charrtheir tomatoes and roast their bell peppers, they most likely want to make any of the following dishes:

• Nigerian stews and jollof rice
• Sauces and dips
• Pepper soups
• Roasted vegetable sides

If you’ve never tried roasting peppers in the oven, it’s simple: just coat them lightly with oil, place them on a baking tray, and roast at high heat until the skins are slightly dark. 

Go ahead and peel off the skin, and you’re left with soft, smoky, and flavorful peppers.

To make them even more exciting, try pairing roasted peppers and tomatoes with bold African seasonings like suya spice or Jollof mix. For inspiration, check out our guide to 10 African Spice and Condiment Mixes You Must Try.

Is Red Pepper the Same as Cayenne Pepper?

Is Red Pepper the Same as Cayenne Pepper? This is a common question we get to answer almost everyday at the store. And our answer remains the same: No, red pepper is not the same as cayenne pepper.

• Red Bell Pepper: Sweet, mild, and large. It’s often used fresh in salads or roasted for sauces.
• Cayenne Pepper: Small, skinny, and very hot. Usually dried and ground into a powder.

So, while both are “red peppers,” they are very different in taste and use. Bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch, while cayenne delivers heat and spice.

Health Benefits of Roasted Tomatoes and Peppers

Besides taste, charred tomatoes and peppers have a lot of good health benefits. Some of them include:

• Rich in Vitamins: Red bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, both of which support your immune system and eye health.
• Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that becomes even stronger when cooked or roasted.
• Better Digestion: Roasted peppers are easier on the stomach compared to raw ones.
• Heart Health: Some of the nutrients present in both tomatoes and peppers can help reduce inflammation and support heart function.

Many traditional Nigerian meals, like pepper soup and some stews, make use of these roasted ingredients. If you’d like more ideas, check our list of 5 Must-Have Nigerian Soups You Need to Try.

Both charred tomatoes and crispy red bell peppers bring another level of flavor and depth to our meals while also boosting our health. 

Now that you know that red pepper isn’t the same as cayenne pepper. The next time you’re roasting vegetables in the oven or cooking up a pot of pepper soup, remember you’re not only going to unlock the flavors but also nourish your body.

To keep your ingredients fresh and flavorful, even after roasting, check out our helpful guide: How to Store African Groceries to Preserve Freshness and Flavor.

Looking for authentic fresh products, african peppers and tomatoes in the United States? Visit Aso Rock Market Online to shop for everything you need.