Bean spread

Bean Zacusca - A Fall Delicacy

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 370 gr

Zacusca is a traditional recipe that brings a unique flavor every winter. This vegetable spread, rich in aromas and colors, is a symbol of households wishing to preserve the taste of summer and autumn for the cold days. With a delicious combination of peppers, beans, and other vegetables, zacusca is perfect to be served alongside fresh bread or as an appetizer. Let's discover together how to prepare a dream bean zacusca!

Magical Ingredients
- 1.3 kg bell peppers
- 1.2 kg red peppers
- 700 gr onions
- 600 gr carrots
- 700 ml tomato juice (or 1.5 kg garden tomatoes)
- 250 ml oil (choose a quality sunflower oil)
- 3 cans of white beans (preferably from Sun Food, for a natural taste)
- Coarse salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Vegetables
Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve a flavorful zacusca. It is important that the beans are recent, so they cook evenly. If you opt for dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and boil them well before adding them to the zacusca.

2. Roasting the Peppers
The red and bell peppers should be roasted on a stovetop grill or in the oven until the skin becomes black and peels off easily. After roasting, place them hot in a large pot, sprinkle with coarse salt, and cover with a lid. This will help to remove the skins.

3. Cleaning the Peppers
Once cooled, peel the peppers of their skin, stems, and seeds. Make sure to drain any juice that forms, as this will add extra flavor to the zacusca.

4. Preparing the Onions and Carrots
Peel the onions and carrots. Use a food processor to chop them finely, but do not turn them into a paste. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of the zacusca.

5. Heating the Oil
In a large pot (ideal for slow cooking), heat the oil. Add the chopped onions and carrots and sauté them over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until they become translucent.

6. Adding the Peppers
Add the mixture of red and bell peppers to the pot, along with the drained juice. Allow to simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Incorporating the Tomatoes
After about an hour, add the tomato juice. If using fresh tomatoes, wash them, blanch them for easier peeling, then puree and add them to the pot after 30-40 minutes of cooking the vegetables.

8. Cooking the Zacusca
When the zacusca begins to thicken, stir occasionally. At this point, add the boiled, well-drained beans and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until you achieve the desired consistency.

9. Cooling the Zacusca
Once the zacusca is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool for 30 minutes.

10. Preparing the Jars
Wash the jars with hot water and detergent, then place them upside down to drain. Fill the jars with zacusca, being careful to leave a little space at the top.

11. Sterilizing
In a large pot, place the jars and add cold water so that it covers the jars by 3/4. Cover with a towel and bring the water to a boil. Let it boil for 25 minutes.

12. Cooling and Storing
After sterilization, carefully remove the jars and wrap them in a blanket to cool slowly. Once they have completely cooled, label the jars and store them in a cool place.

Practical Tips
- Alternative with other vegetables: You can add zucchini or eggplant to vary the recipe.
- Serving: Zacusca is delicious on toasted bread, alongside cottage cheese or olives.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- *What can I do if the zacusca is too salty?* You can add a little sugar or a splash of vinegar to balance the taste.
- *How can I keep the zacusca longer?* Ensure that the jars are airtight and store them in a dark, cool place.

Nutritional Benefits
Zacusca is an excellent source of vitamins and fiber due to the fresh vegetables. The beans add protein and iron, making it a healthy choice for a snack or appetizer. Each serving of zacusca contains about 80-100 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

In conclusion, bean zacusca is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings us together, reminding us of the beautiful moments spent around the table. Try this recipe and enjoy the flavors of autumn, even on the cold winter days!