Mushroom spread

Mushroom Zacusca - An Autumn Delight

Zacusca is a traditional recipe, loved by many, that captures the essence of autumn's flavor. This dish can be found in numerous variations, but today we focus on a delicious mushroom zacusca recipe, which can be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread or as a side dish to various meals. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this simple recipe will help you create a dish that the whole family will adore.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400 g

Necessary ingredients:
- 2.5 kg champignon mushrooms (or wild mushrooms for a more intense flavor)
- 1.5 kg bell peppers
- 1.5 kg kapia peppers
- 1.5 kg onions
- 1 kg tomatoes
- 700 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- Peppercorns (to taste)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Salt (to taste)

Preparing the mushroom zacusca:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the onions and finely chopping them using a meat grinder or food processor. If you choose to use wild mushrooms, they will add a distinctive note to your zacusca. Make sure the mushrooms are fresh and free from spots.

Step 2: Roasting the peppers
Roast the kapia peppers on the gas stove or on a tray in the oven until the skin becomes black and begins to peel off. Once cooled, peel off the skin and seeds and chop them finely.

Step 3: Cooking the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and chopped onions. Place the pot on low heat and let the onions sauté for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the chopped bell peppers and let it cook for another 10 minutes.

Step 4: Adding tomatoes and mushrooms
After 10 minutes, add the chopped tomatoes and the peeled kapia peppers. Continue to stir and let it simmer, then add the finely chopped mushrooms. Season with salt to taste, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Remember how many leaves you added, so you can remove them at the end.

Step 5: Boiling the zacusca
Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. The zacusca is ready when the oil starts to rise to the surface, which will take about 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Sterilizing the jars
While the zacusca is boiling, wash and sterilize the jars. You can do this either by boiling them in water or in the oven. Once the zacusca is ready, pour it hot into the jars, filling them almost to the rim.

Step 7: The sterilization process
Place the jars in a large pot and cover them with water. Put the pot on the stove and let it boil in steam for 45 minutes. This will ensure better preservation of the zacusca in the long term.

Step 8: Cooling the jars
After the sterilization time has expired, you can let the jars cool in the water or take them out and cover with a blanket to keep them warm. Once completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar.

Useful tips:
- If you want a spicier zacusca, add a finely chopped hot pepper during preparation.
- By replacing champignon mushrooms with wild mushrooms, you will add a unique flavor and aroma to your zacusca.
- Zacusca can be stored for several months, but it is recommended to consume it within a year.

Nutritional values:
This mushroom zacusca recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while vegetables provide a healthy amount of fiber. Depending on the serving, each jar contains approximately 120 calories, making zacusca an excellent option for snacks or quick meals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Sure! You can experiment with shiitake or pleurotus mushrooms for a different flavor.
- How can I serve zacusca?
Zacusca is perfect on toasted bread, alongside natural yogurt, or as a side dish for meat.
- How long does zacusca last?
If properly sterilized, zacusca can last up to a year.

Serving suggestions:
For an extra touch of flavor, serve zacusca with cottage cheese or a fresh vegetable salad. A bottle of white wine or a light red wine will perfectly complement the meal.

I encourage you to try this mushroom zacusca recipe, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the autumn flavors in every jar! Bon appétit!