Bean spread

Bean zacusca - a fall delicacy that brings warm memories and moments spent with family. This recipe, inspired by Romanian culinary traditions, is perfect for cool days when we want to enjoy a healthy and flavorful snack. In this detailed guide, I will teach you step by step how to prepare a delicious bean zacusca, doubling the portions to fill your pantry with 7 jars of 750 ml of goodness.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 7 jars of 750 ml

Ingredients:

- 1 kg dried white beans (preferably small type for a finer texture)
- 4 kg red bell peppers (choose ripe, juicy peppers)
- 3 kg onions (white onions are the most suitable)
- 1/2 l tomato paste (preferably homemade, thicker)
- 1/2 l oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 1 celery (a medium root for flavor and texture)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable Delikat (or salt, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- 3 crushed aspirins (for preservation and a slightly sour taste)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the beans
Start by washing the white beans well. Then, soak them in cold water overnight or, if you're in a hurry, for at least 3 hours. This will help the beans cook faster and become more digestible.

Step 2: Boil the beans
After soaking, put the beans in a large pot with water and a little salt. Boil the beans until they become soft, about 1-1.5 hours. When ready, drain the beans and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the bell peppers
The peppers can be roasted on a garden grill, but if you don't have this option, you can roast them on the stove. Place them on a tray and roast them over medium heat, turning them frequently until the skin becomes black and puffs up. After roasting, let them cool, then peel off the skin.

Step 4: Chop the ingredients
Once the peppers have cooled, pass them through a meat grinder along with the onions to obtain a smooth paste. The onions should be well chopped to blend perfectly into the zacusca.

Step 5: Sauté the onions
In a large pot, add half of the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden. This is when the aroma of the onions will fill the kitchen.

Step 6: Combine the ingredients
Once the onions are ready, add the boiled beans, chopped peppers, grated celery, the rest of the oil, tomato paste, Delikat, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Mix all the ingredients well.

Step 7: Cook the zacusca
Put the pot on low heat and let the zacusca simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Check after an hour and a half and taste to adjust the seasonings. You may need to add a little sugar, depending on the acidity of the tomato paste.

Step 8: Prepare for preservation
After the zacusca is ready, crush the 3 aspirins and add them to the mixture. This will help preserve the flavor and color.

Step 9: Bottling
Pour the hot zacusca into clean, dry jars, sealing them airtight. Place the jars in a large pot with warm water (close to boiling point), cover them with a clean towel, and let them simmer on low heat for 2 hours for sterilization.

Step 10: Cooling and storage
After 2 hours, remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely. Place them in the pantry and enjoy their taste throughout the winter.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Make sure to choose well-ripened peppers, as they will give the zacusca a rich flavor and vibrant color. Buy quality white beans to avoid digestive issues.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables to the zacusca, such as grated carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the flavors.
- Serving: Zacusca is usually served on toasted bread, alongside fresh cottage cheese or olives. It is an ideal appetizer for a festive meal.
- Storage: Ensure that the jars are airtight after sterilization to prevent oxidation. Zacusca can be kept for a long time if well preserved.

Nutritional benefits: Bean zacusca is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any diet. It is low in calories but rich in nutrients, making it ideal for a light snack.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
It is not recommended, as canned beans often contain preservatives and added salt, which could affect the taste and texture of the zacusca.

2. How can I check if the zacusca is ready?
The zacusca is ready when the mixture is well bound and no longer has a watery appearance. The aroma should be rich and pleasant.

3. Can zacusca be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze zacusca, but it is better to keep it in jars for long-term preservation.

This bean zacusca recipe is not just a delicacy but also a way to gather your family around the table, reminding you of the warm and kind moments of childhood. Whether you enjoy it with a slice of warm bread or use it as a side dish, zacusca is a versatile dish that will delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!