Eggplant spread

Eggplant zacusca is a traditional dish, full of flavors and colors, that reminds us of warm moments spent with loved ones. This recipe has crossed generations, being a symbol of care and creativity in the kitchen. In each jar of zacusca, there is not just food, but also a story, a memory, or a good thought. Here’s how you can prepare a delicious eggplant zacusca that will bring joy to your table.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients
- 3.5 kg eggplants
- 4.5 kg red bell peppers and pimentos (preferably fresh and meaty)
- 600 g onions (choose white onions for a sweeter taste)
- 500 g carrots (sweeter carrots will add a pleasant flavor)
- 500 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can combine it with a bit of olive oil)
- Salt (about 4 heaping tablespoons)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)

Step-by-step preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Wash the eggplants and peppers well, then dry them with a clean towel. Place them on a baking tray in a preheated oven at 200°C until the skin becomes blackened and cracked. You can also use a grill for a smoky flavor. After roasting, let them cool slightly, then peel off the skin. It’s a good idea to do this step a day in advance to save time.

Step 2: Chopping the vegetables
Peel the onions and carrots. Use a food processor to finely chop them. This will help to even out the texture of the zacusca. The onions will provide a sweet base, while the carrots will add a splash of color and flavor.

Step 3: Cooking the zacusca
Heat the oil in a non-stick pot or a cast-iron pot (the cast iron will give a more authentic taste). Add the onions and, after a few minutes, introduce the carrots and salt. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the vegetables become translucent and the flavors blend.

Step 4: Adding the roasted vegetables
Add the peppers and eggplants, all chopped in the food processor. Mix well, then add the spices: pepper and bay leaves. Let the zacusca simmer over medium heat for 2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bottling
When the zacusca is ready, fill the sterilized jars with hot zacusca. Place the lids on the jars upside down, cover them with a blanket, and let them cool slowly. After 5-10 minutes, turn the jars right side up and let them cool completely.

Practical tips
- Sterilizing the jars: Make sure the jars are well sterilized to prevent spoilage. You can sterilize them in the oven or by boiling.
- Flavors: You can experiment with other spices, such as sweet or hot paprika, to adapt the zacusca to your taste.
- Consistency: If you prefer a smoother zacusca, you can blend the mixture with an immersion blender after it has cooled slightly.

Nutritional benefits
Eggplant zacusca is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Eggplants are excellent sources of antioxidants, and peppers are full of vitamin C. This recipe is ideal for a healthy diet, with an average calorie content of about 150 kcal per serving.

Frequently asked questions
- How can I store zacusca for a longer time? Make sure the jars are airtight and store them in a dark, cool place.
- Can zacusca be frozen? Although we recommend keeping it in jars, zacusca can be frozen, but the texture and taste may change.

Serving and combinations
Eggplant zacusca is delicious served alongside a slice of fresh bread, but you can also use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a sauce for pasta. Pair it with a crispy green salad and a glass of white or red wine for a perfect lunch.

Variations
To add a personal touch, you can also use other vegetables in the zacusca, such as zucchini or olives. You can also try adding fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a fresher taste.

With this eggplant zacusca recipe, you will be able to delight your family and friends with a traditional dish, full of flavor and love. It may even become your favorite recipe, one you return to year after year, always bringing a bit of warmth and joy from the harvest season into each jar. Enjoy your meal!