Bean spread

Bean zacusca: a delicious recipe for every season

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: 3 jars of 720 g each

Bean zacusca is a traditional dish, full of flavor and color, that combines simple and healthy ingredients. This recipe is perfect for winter days when you need a touch of warmth on your plate, but it can be enjoyed throughout the year. Over time, zacusca has become a symbol of hospitality, often served with fresh bread or various cheeses.

Ingredients:

- 800 g of beans (preferably white or red)
- 500 g of onion
- 500 g of carrots
- 500 g of bell peppers
- 500 g of tomatoes
- 400 ml of oil (sunflower or olive, depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the beans

Start by soaking the beans the night before. This step is essential as soaking helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well. Place them in a large pot, adding enough water to cover them. Add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the beans over medium heat until they become soft, which can take about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the type of beans used.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, and bell peppers into suitable pieces. You can use a food processor to save time. The tomatoes need to be blanched: to peel them more easily, make a few shallow cuts at the base and place them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. After that, cool them quickly in cold water and peel them. Cut them into small cubes.

Step 3: Cooking the zacusca

Once the beans are boiled, drain them well and mash them with a blender until you get a smooth paste. In a large pot, heat the oil. Add the onion and sauté it over medium heat until it becomes golden. Then, add the carrots and continue to sauté until the carrots soften. Next, add the bell peppers to the sautéed vegetables, stirring frequently.

Once all the vegetables are softened, add the bean paste and the tomato cubes. Mix well and let the zacusca simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to rise to the surface, indicating that the zacusca is ready.

Step 4: Preserving the zacusca

Prepare the jars: wash them well and sterilize them in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes. When the zacusca is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized jars, filling them almost to the brim. Leave a tablespoon of oil in the pot, which you will use to pour a few tablespoons of oil over each jar to prevent oxidation. Cover the jars with plastic wrap and screw on the lids.

Place the jars in the oven at 150°C for about 30 minutes to seal them properly. After this time, remove the jars and let them cool to room temperature.

Serving suggestions and combinations

Bean zacusca can be served hot or cold, alongside a slice of fresh or toasted bread. It is an excellent option for an appetizer or a light meal. You can also add feta cheese or grated cheese for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh summer salad or with olives and pickled cucumbers.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant protein, rich in fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. They contribute to healthy digestion and help maintain blood sugar levels. The vegetables in zacusca add essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Just make sure to rinse them well before using.

2. How long can zacusca be stored?
Zacusca can be stored for several months in the pantry as long as the jars are sealed properly.

3. How can I vary the ingredients?
You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to create a zacusca with a different flavor.

4. What drinks pair well with zacusca?
A bottle of white wine or craft beer pairs perfectly with bean zacusca.

This bean zacusca recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also a fantastic way to gather family and friends around the table. So don't wait any longer! Share this recipe with your loved ones and bring joy to the plate!