Eggplant caviar with mushrooms

Eggplant caviar with mushrooms is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of roasted vegetables and the rich taste of mushrooms, transforming into a savory appetizer, perfect to be enjoyed on fresh bread or alongside fine cheese. It is a traditional recipe that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients, evoking family memories and moments spent around the table.

Total preparation time: 6 hours
Cooking time: 2 hours
Number of servings: approximately 45 jars of 400g

Necessary ingredients:
- 15 kg eggplants
- 7 kg bell peppers
- 7 kg sweet peppers
- 7 kg pimentos
- 3 kg onions
- 2 kg mushrooms
- 2 jars of tomato paste (approximately 500 g)
- 1.5 l oil
- 5 large garlic heads
- 10 bay leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Steps for preparing eggplant caviar with mushrooms:

1. Preparing the eggplants
The first step is to take care of the eggplants. Roast the eggplants over an open flame (for example, on the stovetop or grill) until the skin turns black and the eggplants soften. This process will enhance the eggplant's flavor, giving it a delicious smoky taste. Once roasted, let them cool slightly, then peel off the skin. It is essential to leave them in a sieve or bowl for at least 3 hours to drain well and eliminate the characteristic bitterness.

Practical tips: Use gloves to avoid skin irritation from the eggplants. If you don’t have an open flame available, you can roast the eggplants in the oven on a tray covered with aluminum foil.

2. Roasting the peppers
The bell peppers, sweet peppers, and pimentos are roasted in the oven, in a large tray, preferably a gas oven. Preheat the oven to 220°C and let them roast for 30 minutes without turning them. This method ensures even roasting, and the skin will peel off easily.

After roasting, place the peppers in a large pot with a lid, sprinkling generously with salt. The salt will help soften the skins, making them easier to peel. Let them sit for 2 hours before cleaning.

3. Cleaning the mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms, wash them well, and boil them for 10 minutes in salted water. After boiling, let them drain. If using jarred mushrooms, make sure to rinse them well with cold water to remove excess salt or preservatives.

4. Preparing the onions
Peel the onions and cut them into scales. In a large pot (preferably a cauldron or a deep pot), heat the oil and sauté the onions until they turn golden. It is recommended to sauté them in 2-3 batches to ensure even cooking.

5. Combining the ingredients
Once the onions are ready, add the peeled eggplants, mixing well. After 10 minutes, add the mushrooms and finely chopped garlic. After another 10 minutes, add the peeled and seeded peppers and pimentos.

Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. After about 10-15 minutes, add the tomato paste.

6. Bottling
Once the mixture has boiled, start the bottling process. Fill clean jars with eggplant caviar with mushrooms, leaving a little space at the top of the jar. Then, sterilize the jars in a water bath to preserve them well.

Serving suggestions
Eggplant caviar with mushrooms is perfect served on a slice of toasted bread, alongside a soft cheese or as an appetizer for various festive meals. It can be combined with a fresh green salad or olives for a contrast of flavors.

Nutritional benefits
This caviar is an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Eggplants are rich in fiber and contribute to digestive health, while mushrooms provide a supply of plant-based proteins and essential minerals.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other vegetables? Sure! You can add zucchini or carrots if you want to vary the recipe.
- How long can the caviar be stored? Properly sterilized caviar can be kept in the pantry for up to 1 year.
- Can I freeze the caviar? Although not recommended, if you have a surplus, you can freeze it, but the texture may change upon thawing.

Final notes
This recipe for eggplant caviar with mushrooms is not just a simple dish, but a true tradition that brings people together. Whether you prepare it for winter or enjoy it immediately, each jar is a family story, a moment of joy, and a part of culinary culture. So gather your family and friends around the table and enjoy these delicious flavors! Bon appétit!