Bean spread

Bean Zacusca - A Fall Delicacy for the Cold Winter

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Every autumn, when nature offers us the most beautiful and tasty vegetables, it's time to prepare for winter by preserving the delicious flavors of the season. Bean zacusca is a traditional recipe that not only delights our taste buds but also brings back cherished family memories, gatherings, and bountiful meals. This zacusca can be used as an appetizer, on fresh bread or alongside cheese, and is an excellent way to add a splash of flavor to the colder days.

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg onions (for a sweet and aromatic base)
- 2 kg bell peppers (for specific sweetness)
- 1 kg sweet or kapia peppers (adding a note of freshness)
- 1 kg white beans (source of protein and consistency)
- 4 medium carrots (for a sweet taste)
- 500 ml Floriol oil (for cooking and preservation)
- 500 ml tomato puree (for an intense flavor)
- Coarse non-iodized salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper (for a hint of spice)
- A few peppercorns (for a complex taste)
- 2 bay leaves (for aroma)
- 1 bunch of celery (for freshness at the end)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Beans
Start by washing the beans in several waters to remove impurities. Then, let them soak in cold water for 8 hours, ideally from evening to morning. This step is essential as it makes the beans easier to cook and improves digestibility.

Step 2: Boiling the Beans
The next day, drain the beans and put them to boil in a large pot with water and salt. Boil for about 40 minutes or until they become soft but not overly mushy. Well-cooked beans will provide a pleasant texture to the zacusca.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables
While the beans are boiling, peel and chop the onions, bell peppers, sweet peppers, and carrots. You can use a food processor to make this step quicker. Ensure that the vegetables are finely chopped for even incorporation into the zacusca.

Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and the chopped onions with a little salt. Sauté the onions over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This is when the onion's aroma develops and becomes the delicious base of the zacusca.

Step 5: Adding the Other Vegetables
Add the bell peppers, sweet peppers, and carrots to the pot. Stir well and let the vegetables simmer together for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Integrating the Beans
When the beans are cooked, drain them and add them to the pot. You can leave the beans whole or lightly mash them in a food processor, depending on your preferences. Add salt, freshly ground pepper, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Let the zacusca simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Finalizing the Zacusca
After the zacusca has boiled and started to thicken, add the tomato puree. Adjust the salt if necessary, and let it simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the oil rises to the surface. This is a sign that the zacusca is ready!

Step 8: Preserving
Once the zacusca is ready, remove the bay leaves (to avoid a bitter taste) and add the freshly chopped celery. The hot preparation is poured into sterilized jars. Screw on the lid and place the jars in a tray. Put the tray in the preheated oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes to seal the jars. Turn off the oven and let the jars cool inside until the next day. Then, store them in your pantry.

Practical Tips

1. Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the vegetables influences the final taste of the zacusca. Buy seasonal, organic vegetables whenever possible.

2. Play with flavors: You can add other spices, such as smoked paprika or garlic, to customize the recipe to your taste.

3. Vary the beans: You can experiment with other types of beans, such as red or black beans, to achieve a different appearance for the zacusca.

4. Serving: Zacusca is delicious on toasted bread as an appetizer, but it also pairs wonderfully with feta cheese or telemea.

Nutritional Benefits
Bean zacusca is not only tasty but also healthy. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, making this dish ideal for a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can zacusca be frozen? Yes, if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in small portions.
- How long do the jars last in the pantry? If well sterilized, the zacusca can last up to a year under optimal conditions.
- Can it be adapted for vegans? This recipe is already vegan, so you can enjoy it worry-free!

Conclusion
Preparing bean zacusca is a delightful activity that will fill your home with delicious aromas and prepare you for the upcoming winter. It is a traditional recipe that can be adapted to your preferences, bringing a touch of warmth and flavor to every jar. Enjoy!