Fish spread

Fish Zacusca: An Unforgettable Delicacy

If you're tired of regular zacusca and want to try something truly special, the fish zacusca recipe I'm about to share with you is exactly what you need. This recipe, lovingly passed down from my aunt, combines the rich flavors of vegetables with succulent fish, creating a delicious spread that can be enjoyed on toasted bread or as a side dish to various meals. Let's discover together how you can prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients

- 2 kg onions
- 5 kg red bell peppers
- 2.5 kg fish (preferably mackerel)
- 1 kg carrots
- 500 ml oil
- 500 ml tomato juice
- 15 bay leaves
- 1 packet (20 g) peppercorns
- salt, to taste

Ingredient Details

1. Onions: Choose white or yellow onions, which add a sweet and aromatic flavor. I advise you to chop them finely for better incorporation into your zacusca.
2. Bell Peppers: Opt for red bell peppers, as they have a natural sweetness and a crunchy texture. Make sure they are well-ripened and blemish-free.
3. Fish: Mackerel is ideal due to its juicy flesh and intense flavors. If you prefer, you can experiment with other types of fish, but the composition will change.
4. Tomato Juice: You can use freshly squeezed tomato juice or store-bought, but make sure it is of high quality to achieve an authentic taste.
5. Carrots: They add a note of sweetness and a splash of color. Use fresh carrots, preferably from organic sources.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Fish: Start by boiling the fish. Place it in a pot with water, add salt, a few bay leaves, and peppercorns. Boil for 2-3 minutes to cook it lightly. Remove the fish from the water, let it cool slightly, then clean it of bones and cut it into small pieces. This step is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises when serving.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: Clean the onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Grate the carrots and chop the onions and bell peppers. For a finer texture, you can pass them through a meat grinder.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large pot (about 10 liters), add the oil and grated carrots. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring constantly until they become soft. This process will take about 10-15 minutes.

4. Adding Onions and Bell Peppers: Once the carrots are sautéed, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Continue to stir and sauté until you achieve a homogeneous paste, about 30 minutes. This stage is crucial for developing the flavors.

5. Finalizing the Dish: Now, slowly add the tomato juice, cut fish, a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Preserving: Fill the jars with hot zacusca, leave a little space at the top, and screw on the lids. Place the jars in a dry steam (wrapped in a thick blanket) and let them cool slowly until the next day. This process will help ensure the perfect sealing of the jars.

Practical Tips

- Bone Removal: If you're unsure of your fish cleaning skills, you can ask a friend for help or use filleted fish from the store.
- Taste: It's important to taste the zacusca throughout the process so you can adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Variations: You can add hot peppers for a spicy kick or olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Perfect Combinations

Fish zacusca is delicious served on a slice of toasted bread or alongside olives and goat cheese. It also pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or as a side dish to meat dishes.

Nutritional Benefits

This zacusca is rich in protein due to the fish, while the vegetables provide vitamins and minerals. Carrots are full of beta-carotene, and bell peppers contain antioxidants that contribute to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of fish, but mackerel is recommended for its texture and flavor.

2. How long can I keep the zacusca?
Properly preserved zacusca can be kept for up to a year, but it's recommended to consume it within 6 months to enjoy the best flavors.

3. Is it necessary to use oil?
Oil is essential for sautéing the vegetables and creating a homogeneous paste, but you can reduce the amount if you prefer a lighter recipe.

In conclusion, fish zacusca is an excellent choice for those looking to bring a touch of originality to their kitchen. With patience and attention to detail, you will succeed in creating a delicious dish that will impress everyone. Enjoy every serving and cherish the pleasant memories that this recipe brings!