Eggplant spread

Eggplant zacusca is a delicacy that combines the rich flavors of summer and is a true feast of tastes for any meal. This traditional recipe, full of history and soul, is perfect for preparing in generous quantities and preserving for the cold winter days. Not only will it bring a touch of warmth to every jar of zacusca, but it will also evoke pleasant memories around the table with family and friends.

Total preparation time: 4 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Number of servings: approximately 15 jars of 300-400 g

Ingredients:

- 5 kg eggplants
- 5 kg red bell peppers (must be meaty and ripe)
- 500 g carrots
- 2 kg onions
- 800 g homemade tomato paste (or pulp from 3-4 kg of fresh tomatoes)
- 1 l oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of sugar

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by roasting the eggplants on a grill or open flame to give them a smoky flavor and pleasant texture. Avoid the oven, as they won't achieve the same taste. Roast the bell peppers as well, ensuring they are well charred to extract all their flavor. Once cooled, peel off the skin and cut them into suitable pieces.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the eggplants and bell peppers, then pass them through a meat grinder along with the peeled carrots. You can finely chop the onion using a food processor to achieve a uniform texture.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This will add sweetness and flavor to your zacusca.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is ready, add the carrot, bell pepper, and eggplant. Sautéing them will help intensify the flavors. Mix well and let them sauté for a few minutes.

5. Preparing the sauce: Add the tomato paste (or pulp) and let it simmer on low heat. It's important to dilute the paste with a little water so that the zacusca doesn't become too thick.

6. Seasoning: During the simmering process, add salt, pepper, the 2 tablespoons of sugar (which will balance the acidity), and the finely chopped garlic. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes homogeneous and aromatic.

7. Preserving the zacusca: Prepare clean jars, ideally sterilized, and fill them with hot zacusca. Seal the lids tightly and place the jars wrapped in blankets, allowing them to cool slowly. This will help create a vacuum, keeping the zacusca fresh for a longer time.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: When selecting eggplants, look for ones that are firm and heavy. The red bell peppers should be meaty and sweet, to provide a pleasant taste to the zacusca.
- The version without paste: If you prefer a more natural version, you can use fresh tomatoes. Pass them through a separator to obtain only the pulp. This will add a fresh and vibrant taste.
- Zacusca in a jar: If you prefer not to use oil, you can try baking the zacusca covered with aluminum foil to reduce the use of fats.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Eggplant zacusca is a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals. Eggplants are low in calories, while bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C. A 100 g serving of zacusca contains approximately 130 calories, making it an ideal snack or a healthy accompaniment to various dishes.

Frequently asked questions:

- How can I keep zacusca longer? It is essential to properly sterilize the jars before filling them and to ensure that the zacusca is hot when putting it into the jars.
- Can I add other vegetables? Of course! You can experiment with zucchini or mushrooms to create a unique version of your zacusca.
- What goes well with zacusca? Zacusca pairs perfectly with toasted bread, polenta, or as a filling for sandwiches.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the eggplant zacusca on a beautifully decorated plate, alongside slices of fresh bread, feta cheese, or olives. You can also add a few parsley leaves for a vibrant look. A bottle of white wine or a craft beer will perfectly complement this rustic meal.

In conclusion, eggplant zacusca is not just a delicious recipe, but also a way to preserve the tastes of summer and create memories with loved ones. Try this recipe and enjoy the authentic flavor, full of warmth and love!