Mexican dip

Mexican Zacusca: A Winter Delicacy

Who doesn't love to savor a flavorful zacusca on cold winter days? This Mexican zacusca recipe is a vibrant combination of roasted vegetables, fruits, and spices, perfect for any meal. Preparing this recipe will not only bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your home, but it will also transform the ingredients you have in your freezer into an unforgettable delicacy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20 jars of 400g

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 kg roasted eggplants
- 2 kg onions
- 4 kg peppers (preferably roasted bell peppers and Kapia)
- 2 kg apples (any type can be used, but sweet-sour apples are ideal)
- 2 kg carrots
- 2 kg celery
- 800 g tomato paste
- 1 L oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- Spices: bay leaves, pepper, oregano, nutmeg, thyme
- 4 tablespoons salt (adjustable to taste)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (for a balanced taste)

A brief history of zacusca:
Zacusca is a popular traditional dish often associated with the cold season, used as a method of preserving vegetables. This recipe blends influences from various cultures, and each housewife has her own secret. In our Mexican version, we add a touch of fruit that gives it a unique flavor, enriching the aroma and texture.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by roasting the eggplants and peppers. You can do this either on the grill or in the oven. Make sure the eggplants are well roasted until the skin is charred and the flesh becomes soft. After roasting, let them cool in a damp towel; this will make peeling easier.

2. The magic grater:
Meanwhile, peel the apples, carrots, and celery. Grate them. This step is crucial as these ingredients will add the necessary sweetness and texture to the zacusca.

3. Sauté the onions:
In a large pot (ideally 15L), add 3/4 L of oil and sauté the finely chopped onions. Cook until they become transparent and slightly golden.

4. Add the grated vegetables:
After the onions are sautéed, add the celery, carrots, and apples. Continue to stir constantly for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

5. Incorporate the peppers:
Add the finely chopped peppers. Mix well and let everything cook together for 15-20 minutes. The peppers bring a fresh and sweet note, perfect for balancing the other ingredients.

6. The secret ingredient - eggplants:
Peel the roasted eggplants and mash them with the remaining oil. Add them to the pot, mixing them with the other ingredients.

7. Seasoning:
It's time to add the spices! Add salt, pepper, bay leaves, oregano, nutmeg, and thyme. Don't forget to taste the dish; it's essential to adjust the spices to your liking.

8. Add vegetable juice:
To prevent the zacusca from being too thick, add a bit of juice from the eggplants and peppers, mixing well. This trick will keep the perfect consistency.

9. Finalizing the dish:
When the mixture is almost ready, add the tomato paste and let it simmer in the oven for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

10. Sterilizing the jars:
While the zacusca is baking, prepare the jars. I recommend sterilizing them in the oven, without lids, at a temperature of 100°C for about 10-15 minutes.

11. Packing the zacusca:
Once the zacusca is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, placing the lid on immediately. You can leave the jars in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they seal well.

12. Cooling the jars:
Once you're done, turn off the oven and let the jars cool inside. This will help create a vacuum, thus prolonging the shelf life of your zacusca.

Useful tips:

- If you want a spicier zacusca, you can add chopped hot peppers according to your preferences.
- This recipe can be adapted based on available vegetables; for example, you can replace apples with zucchini or add mushrooms for a richer flavor.
- Zacusca can be served warm, alongside fresh bread, or cold, as an appetizer. It is also delicious with cheeses or cold cuts.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

- How long does zacusca last?
Zacusca can be stored in sealed jars, in a cool and dark place, for up to a year.

- Can the spices be personalized?
Absolutely! Each housewife has her own preferences when it comes to spices, so don't hesitate to experiment.

Nutritional benefits:
This zacusca is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables and apples. It is an excellent source of antioxidants and can contribute to a healthy diet, being a filling and flavorful appetizer.

In conclusion, the Mexican zacusca you prepare will not only be a delight for your taste buds, but it will also bring a memory of summer, even in the middle of winter. Enjoy every moment spent cooking and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!