Panacris Spread

Zacusca Panacris: The Delight of Home Comfort

Zacusca, a traditional Romanian dish, is more than just a simple vegetable spread; it is a story, an experience, an explosion of flavors that reminds us of warm autumn days spent with loved ones. This recipe, enjoyed by generations, is perfect for family preparation, turning into a true team activity. Whether you savor it on a slice of fresh bread or use it as a side dish, zacusca will surely delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:

- 20 kg eggplants
- 10 kg bell peppers
- 5 kg colored bell peppers
- 6 liters tomato puree
- 2 kg white onion
- 2 liters oil
- Bay leaves (to taste)
- Peppercorns (to taste)
- Iodized salt (to taste)

Preparing Zacusca Panacris:

Step 1: Prepare the eggplants
Start by preparing the eggplants. Roast them on a wood fire grill to give them an authentic taste. The smoky aroma will add extra flavor to the zacusca. Once roasted, peel them and let them drain in a colander. This process will remove excess water, helping to achieve a thicker zacusca.

For the bell peppers, follow a similar process. After roasting, place them in a covered dish, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit covered for about 30 minutes. This will make peeling easier. Peel off the skin, stems, and seeds, taking care to use as little water as possible to avoid diluting the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the onion
Meanwhile, peel and finely chop the onion. In a large skillet, heat 500 ml of oil and add the onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, being careful not to burn it. This step is essential for giving the zacusca a special flavor.

Step 3: Add the vegetables
Add the cleaned and finely chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Let them cook together with the onion until the mixture starts to boil. Then, add the drained and chopped eggplants, mixing well to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Cooking the zacusca
Add the remaining oil, tomato puree, salt, bay leaves, and peppercorns to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat or in the oven for about 4 hours. It is important for the zacusca to cook slowly to allow the oil to rise to the surface, a sign that it is ready.

Step 5: Bottling
After the zacusca has cooked, prepare the jars. They should be sterilized beforehand in a hot oven. Fill the jars with hot zacusca and seal them well. Leave the jars in a warm place until the next day, then store them in the pantry.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh, quality vegetables to achieve an exceptional taste.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and spices according to your preferences.
- If you want a spicier zacusca, add hot peppers to the mix.

Possible variations:
- You can add mushrooms for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as Romanian tomatoes or garden tomatoes, to create a unique zacusca.

Nutritional benefits:
Zacusca is rich in fiber and vitamins, being an excellent source of nutrients. Eggplants and bell peppers are alkaline and contribute to heart health, while tomato puree is full of antioxidants.

Serving suggestions:
Zacusca Panacris is perfectly served on slices of toasted bread, alongside a glass of red wine or craft beer. It can also be used as a side dish for various meat dishes or as a filling for pastries.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables for zacusca?
Yes, you can experiment with various vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots.
- How can I keep zacusca for a longer time?
Make sure the jars are well sealed and stored in a dark, cool place.

By sharing this zacusca Panacris recipe, you will not only have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dish but also create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Cooking together is a wonderful activity that brings people closer and makes every meal more special. So gather your family around the table, prepare the ingredients, and let the magic of zacusca carry you away!