Crimson Charred Bell Pepper Delights

1. Prepare the Oven Rack

First, adjust your oven rack so it's about 2½ to 3½ inches from the broiler. This positioning ensures that the bell peppers will get even exposure to the intense heat, which is crucial for achieving that perfect char. If your oven design makes it tricky to get the rack close enough, an upside-down rimmed baking sheet can help elevate the peppers to the right height. Once your oven is set up, preheat it to broil.

2. Broil the Peppers

Next, lay the prepared red bell peppers flat on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet. With the broiler's heat, the skin of the peppers will char and puff, creating a delightful contrast with the tender flesh underneath. Broil them for 8 to 10 minutes, keeping an eye on their progress. Halfway through the cooking time, rotate the baking sheet to ensure an even char on all sides. You'll know the peppers are ready when their skins are blackened and puffed up.

3. Steam the Peppers

Once the peppers are properly charred, carefully transfer them to a medium bowl and cover it tightly with foil. Let the peppers steam in the covered bowl for about 10 to 15 minutes. This steaming step is essential; it makes peeling off the skins much easier later on.

4. Peel and Serve

After the peppers have steamed, peel off the skins. You’ll find that the skins come off effortlessly, leaving you with perfectly charred and tender bell peppers ready to be enjoyed in your favorite dishes.