Bean spread

Bean zacusca – A family recipe full of warmth and flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 15-16 jars of 400 g

Who doesn’t love zacusca? This traditional dish, rich in flavors and colors, reminds us of the moments spent with loved ones, of the warm winters when we savor the goodies from our pantry. The bean zacusca recipe I will share with you is a special one, passed down from generation to generation, from mother to daughter. So, get ready to enjoy a delight that will please not only your taste buds but also your soul!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg of beans
- 1 kg of onions
- 3 kg of bell peppers
- 1 l of oil
- 1 l of tomato paste
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper
- 8 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of salicylic acid (for preservation)

Preparing the bean zacusca is done in a few simple but essential steps to achieve a perfect result. Here’s how to proceed:

Step 1: Preparing the beans
Start the night before by soaking the beans in cold water. It’s important to let the beans absorb water so they soften and cook evenly. Soaking not only reduces cooking time but also aids digestion.

Step 2: Boiling the beans
The next day, change the water and boil the beans in a large pot over medium heat. Allow them to boil for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The beans are ready when they become soft but do not break apart. After boiling, drain the beans and let them cool.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
Peel the onions, wash them, and cut them into quarters. Then, use a meat grinder to chop the onions. Apply the same process to the bell peppers, which you wash, peel, and slice before chopping. The last ingredient you will chop is the beans, which you will turn into a fine paste.

Step 4: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until they become translucent. Add the bell peppers and continue sautéing together for 10-15 minutes. It’s essential to stir constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Adding the beans
Now, add the boiled beans to the pot and let everything simmer together. It’s important to stir constantly so that all the ingredients combine harmoniously. Season with salt and pepper, then add the tomato paste and bay leaves. Simmer the mixture for another 20-30 minutes.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the salicylic acid, which will help preserve the zacusca. Once the mixture is well combined and the flavors melded, remove the pot from the heat.

Step 7: Packaging and preserving
Transfer the hot zacusca into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids and wrap them in blankets. Let them cool slowly for 2-3 days in a warm place. This method will help maintain the taste and aromas.

Useful tips:
- If you want the zacusca to be easier to digest, you can blanch it for a few minutes in hot water before chopping.
- You can experiment with different types of peppers or vegetables by adding, for example, carrots or zucchini to bring a unique touch.
- Zacusca can be served on a slice of toasted bread, alongside feta cheese or as an appetizer with olives and pickled vegetables.

Nutritional values:
Bean zacusca is an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It can be an ideal dish for those following a vegetarian diet or looking to reduce meat consumption.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long can zacusca be stored?
Zacusca can be stored in a pantry, in a cool, dark place, for 1-2 years if well preserved.

2. Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of beans, but the large beans offer a distinct texture and flavor that perfectly match the other ingredients.

3. What drinks pair well with zacusca?
Zacusca can be enjoyed alongside a dry white wine or a craft beer, which will complement the intense flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, bean zacusca is not just a delicious recipe but also a way to keep culinary traditions alive and bring families together. So, embrace this recipe and turn it into your own soul dish! Enjoy!