Bean spread (prepared dietetically)

Bean zacusca – A dietetic and delicious recipe

Today I present a recipe for bean zacusca, prepared in a dietetic version that will pamper the taste buds of even the pickiest among us. This delicacy, rich in flavors and textures, is perfect for autumn days or to be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread or as a side dish to a hearty meal.

Preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: Approximately 10 servings

The history of zacusca is fascinating, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. This preserve has become an effective method of preserving vegetables for winter, but each housewife has her own version, filled with memories and family traditions. In our recipe, the beans take center stage, providing a creamy texture and delicious taste.

Ingredients:

- 2 kg of beans (choose a quality variety, preferably organic)
- 5 kg of red peppers (gogosar or kapia; kapia peppers will bring a sweeter and more aromatic taste)
- 2 kg of carrots (boiled until soft)
- 3 kg of onions (choose white or yellow onions, depending on preference)
- 750 ml of tomato juice (preferably homemade or from a reliable source)
- 1 liter of oil (use sunflower oil for a neutral taste or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- Bay leaves, whole pepper, salt, ground cumin, cardamom (optional)

Preparation techniques:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the beans well and soaking them in cold water for about 8 hours or overnight. This will reduce cooking time and make the beans more digestible.

2. Boiling the ingredients: After the beans have soaked, boil them in a large pot until the beans become soft, about 1.5 hours. Using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce cooking time.

3. Preparing the peppers, carrots, and onions: Wash and clean the peppers, cutting them into large slices. Boil the carrots and onions separately until soft. These will add sweetness and flavor to the zacusca.

4. Sautéing the peppers: In a large pot, add a glass of oil and the sliced peppers. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the skin separates from the flesh of the pepper. This step is essential for achieving a fine texture.

5. Grinding the ingredients: Use a meat grinder to chop the boiled beans, carrots, and onions. The sautéed peppers will be passed through a tomato machine 2-3 times to achieve a fine paste.

6. Final boiling: In another large pot, add the remaining oil, then combine all the ingredients: peppers, carrots, and onions. Boil over medium heat for 30 minutes. After this period, add the beans and continue to stir to prevent sticking.

7. Adding the tomato juice: After 1 hour of boiling, incorporate the tomato juice, bay leaves, pepper, and salt, adjusting the quantities to personal taste. Let the zacusca boil for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

8. Preservation: When the oil rises to the surface, remove the pot from the heat. Fill sterilized jars with the hot zacusca and seal them tightly. Then, boil them in steam for 30 minutes to ensure proper preservation.

Practical tips:

- Prepare in advance: If time is a factor, you can boil the ingredients a day ahead, letting them cool before using. This will make the cooking process much faster and less stressful.

- Recipe variations: For an eggplant zacusca, replace the beans with 5 kg of roasted eggplants. This will add a distinct flavor and different texture, but with the same preparation process.

- Preserving flavors: Adding spices like cumin or cardamom can completely change the taste profile of the zacusca, giving it an exotic note. Experiment with your favorite spices!

Delicious combinations:

Bean zacusca pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread, but you can also serve it alongside feta cheese or as part of an appetizer platter. It can also be enjoyed with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

Nutritional benefits:

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins. This dietetic zacusca is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, positively impacting digestive health and cholesterol levels.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
- While it is a quicker option, dried beans provide a better texture and taste. If using canned beans, make sure to rinse them well to remove added salt.

2. How can I check if the zacusca is well preserved?
- After filling the jars, check if the lids have sealed well. A lid that does not push down is a sign that the jar is well preserved.

3. Can I freeze bean zacusca?
- Yes, zacusca can be frozen. Make sure to store it in airtight containers to prevent flavor loss.

Now that you know all the secrets of this delicious bean zacusca recipe, all that’s left is to prepare it and enjoy its unmistakable aroma! Experiment, adapt, and personalize the recipe to your taste! Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Enjoy your meal!