Zucchini spread (quick version)

Zucchini Caviar – Quick and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars

I propose a recipe for zucchini caviar that will not only delight you with its flavors but is also a quick option, perfect for enjoying alongside a slice of fresh homemade bread. Caviar is a traditional dish, popular in many cultures, often made from roasted vegetables and preserved for winter. This recipe is a simplified yet equally tasty version that will bring a touch of sunshine into each jar.

Necessary ingredients:
- 850 g organic roasted eggplants
- 350 g organic onions
- 500 g chopped organic peppers
- 1 organic zucchini (approximately 300 g)
- 350 g tomato paste
- 300 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2 teaspoons peppercorns
- 7-8 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

Preparing Zucchini Caviar:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by washing all the vegetables well. Finely chop the onion, dice the pepper, and slice the zucchini thinly, removing its seeds. It is important to use fresh, organic vegetables to achieve the most intense and healthy flavor.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a pressure cooker, add the 300 ml of oil, the chopped onion, and pepper. Let them sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced zucchini and mix well with the other vegetables.

3. Pressure cooking:
Close the pressure cooker and let it cook for 30 minutes. Pressure cooking helps intensify the flavors and preserve the nutrients, making this process faster and more efficient.

4. Pureeing the vegetables:
After 30 minutes, use an immersion blender to puree the vegetable mixture. If you do not have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender, but make sure to let it cool slightly to avoid accidents.

5. Adding spices:
Once you have obtained a smooth paste, add the bay leaves, ground pepper, peppercorns, tomato paste, and sweet paprika. Mix all the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.

6. Final boiling:
Close the lid of the pot again and let the caviar simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. This step is essential for the flavors to blend perfectly. You may need to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Preserving the caviar:
Once the caviar is ready, prepare the sterilized jars. Fill them with hot caviar, making sure to seal them tightly. You can keep some in the fridge for immediate consumption, while the rest can be frozen in containers for later enjoyment.

Serving and combinations:
Zucchini caviar pairs wonderfully with warm homemade bread, but you can also serve it alongside cheese, olives, or even as a filling for sandwiches. This caviar can be an excellent appetizer at parties or a delicious accompaniment to a family meal. I recommend trying it with a fresh vegetable salad for a healthy lunch.

Nutritional benefits:
This caviar is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables used. Zucchini, for example, is an excellent source of fiber and low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Eggplants are known for their antioxidant effects, while peppers add a boost of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or pumpkin, to achieve different flavors.

- How can I preserve the caviar for a longer time?
Ensure that the jars are properly sterilized and sealed airtight. You can keep them in a cool, dark place, and if you want to store them longer, freezing is an excellent option.

A personal note:
This zucchini caviar recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mother prepared caviar for winter, and the aromatic smell spread throughout the house. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth and love into each jar.

Savor every bite of your zucchini caviar! This is not just a recipe, but an experience that will fill your heart with joy and your stomach with delights.