Stuffed with zacusca

Stuffed pastries with zacusca – a delicious and easy-to-make treat

I propose we explore a delicious and surprising recipe together: stuffed pastries with zacusca. These savory appetizers are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply want to impress friends at dinner. Cooking with zacusca is an inspired choice, as this vegetable spread not only adds a rich flavor but also a nostalgic aroma, evoking childhood memories.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients needed

For the dough:
- 350 g all-purpose flour – make sure to choose a quality flour for a fluffy texture
- 200 ml lukewarm milk – the milk should not be hot, to avoid killing the yeast
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g) – yeast is essential for achieving a fluffy dough
- 50 ml oil – you can use sunflower or olive oil, depending on your preferences
- 20 g flax seeds – these seeds are rich in omega-3 and add extra nutrition
- 1 teaspoon of sugar – sugar helps activate the yeast
- Salt to taste – don’t forget to add salt to balance the flavors

For the filling:
- A jar of zacusca – you can use zacusca made from various vegetables, but I recommend an eggplant and pepper version for a more intense flavor

Step by step: Preparing the stuffed pastries

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast cube in lukewarm milk. Add the teaspoon of sugar and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure the yeast is active.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour and add salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk and yeast mixture. Add the oil and flax seeds. Start mixing the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until a homogeneous dough forms.

3. Kneading the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Rolling out the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the pastries: After rising, remove the dough and roll it out on the work surface to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Cut circles with a glass or a cutter. Each circle should have a diameter of about 7-10 cm.

6. Filling: Place a teaspoon of zacusca in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle to form a half-moon and press the edges with a fork to seal them well. This will prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Bake for 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

Serving the pastries

Stuffed pastries with zacusca are delicious warm, but can also be served at room temperature. You can accompany them with a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce flavored with garlic and dill for a refreshing touch. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional benefits

These pastries are not only delicious but also healthy. The all-purpose flour provides carbohydrates, while flax seeds add essential fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Zacusca is rich in vitamins and antioxidants due to the vegetables, making each bite not only a culinary pleasure but also a nutritious choice.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add various ingredients to the zacusca or even try different fillings, such as cottage cheese mixed with dill or minced meat. Additionally, for a spicy flavor, you can add hot peppers to the filling or spices like sweet paprika or cumin.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but keep in mind that the texture will be different, and the dough may require more water.
2. How can I store the pastries? They can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
3. What can I do with leftover zacusca? Zacusca can be enjoyed on toasted bread, as an appetizer, or as a side dish for various meals.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get to work! Stuffed pastries with zacusca are an excellent choice to add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. I’m sure the result will amaze you too! Enjoy your meal!