Serbian Ajvar

Serbian Zacusca: A Delight of Autumn in Every Jar

Who doesn't love a delicious zacusca, full of flavors, that brings a touch of summer to the autumn table? Serbian zacusca is a traditional dish, perfect for enjoying at breakfast on a slice of fresh bread, but also as an appetizer at festive meals. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, with accessible ingredients and an easy-to-follow preparation technique. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 4 small eggplants (or 2 large)
- 2 bell peppers (or sweet peppers)
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 large onion
- 100 ml olive oil
- 2-3 cloves (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 crushed garlic cloves (optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplants well under cold running water. After peeling them, dry them with a kitchen towel and place them to roast on a hot stovetop. You can also use a grill or oven, but the stovetop adds an unmistakable smoky flavor. Let them roast until the skin turns black and the eggplants are soft (about 15-20 minutes). When done, let them cool and peel them, allowing them to drain in a sieve to remove excess water.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the eggplants are roasting, cut the peppers into sticks and the onion into julienne. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for a few minutes, then peel and crush them with a fork.

3. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté gently until it becomes translucent, being careful not to burn it. This will give a sweet flavor to your zacusca.

4. Add the other ingredients: Once the onion is ready, add the finely chopped eggplants, crushed tomatoes, and sliced peppers. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped cloves (if you choose to use them). Mix the ingredients well and let them simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes. It’s essential to stir gently to avoid sticking to the pan.

5. Finalizing the dish: After the zacusca has simmered, you can add the crushed garlic if you want a stronger flavor. Mix well, and then taste to adjust the seasonings. You can decide if you want to add more salt or pepper, depending on your preferences.

6. Serving and storage: Serbian zacusca can be served warm or cold, on a slice of fresh bread, alongside cheese or olives. If you made more, you can store it in sterilized jars for winter, ensuring you seal them well to prevent oxidation.

Useful tips

- Choosing eggplants: Choose firm, medium-sized eggplants with smooth skin. Avoid those with spots or a soft texture.
- Peppers: If you want a sweeter zacusca, opt for bell peppers. If you prefer a more tangy taste, choose sweet peppers.
- Oil: Olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of health. You can use another type of oil, but choose a high-quality one.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices that you like. Many people add carrots or zucchini for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Serbian zacusca is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Eggplants are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, while tomatoes provide lycopene, a compound with antioxidant properties. This zacusca is an excellent choice for a balanced diet, being low in calories and full of essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, zacusca is very versatile. You can add zucchini, carrots, or even mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

2. How long does zacusca last?
Zacusca can be stored in sterilized jars and consumed for several months if well sealed. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and consume it within a week.

3. What can I pair zacusca with?
Serbian zacusca pairs perfectly with cheese, olives, or even as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. You can also try it alongside a fresh salad.

Personal notes

This Serbian zacusca recipe always reminds me of moments spent at my grandmother's, when autumn brought the inviting smells of roasted vegetables in the kitchen. Making zacusca becomes a family tradition, a moment of joy and sharing recipes from generation to generation. Don’t forget to experiment and add a little love to each jar!

Enjoy every spoonful of this Serbian zacusca, full of flavors and stories! Bon appétit!